Air conditioner

ABSTRACT

An operational air conditioning mode is allowed to set to a temperature uniformization mode and a spot air conditioning mode, and is selectively switched between these modes automatically by a control means ( 53 ) or manually. In such an embodiment, a comfortably air-conditioned state is obtained in all the areas of a space to be air-conditioned W during air conditioning performed in the temperature uniformization mode, and the comfort is ensured by intensively air-conditioning the surroundings of a person during air conditioning performed in the spot air conditioning mode. At the same time, since an unnecessary air conditioning is not provided to a region without the presence of a person, energy conservation is improved, for example, and thus the comfort of air conditioning and energy conservation are both achieved.

This application is the national phase under 35 U.S.C. § 371 of PCTInternational Application No. PCT/JP02/13408 which has an Internationalfiling date of Dec. 20, 2002, which designated the United States ofAmerica.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an air conditioning apparatus that isprovided with: an inlet located at the center of the bottom face of anindoor unit; and a plurality of elongated rectangular outlets located tosurround the periphery of the inlet, and that is installed such that theindoor unit is embedded in or hung from a ceiling.

BACKGROUND ART

For example, in order to provide air conditioning to a relatively largespace to be air-conditioned such as a shop, a restaurant or an office ina building, an indoor unit of the type embedded in a ceiling or of thetype hung from a ceiling has heretofore generally been disposed at aceiling located above the space to be air-conditioned.

In providing air conditioning to such a large space to beair-conditioned using an indoor unit of the type embedded in a ceilingor of the type hung from a ceiling, air flows have conventionally beendischarged uniformly from respective outlets of the indoor unit withoutgiving any thoughts to air conditioning requirement such as distributionof heat load or distribution of people within the space to beair-conditioned. This has been causing, for example, a problem thattemperature variations occur in the space to be air-conditioned tocreate an area inferior in comfort accompanied with draftiness, anotherproblem that an area without the presence of a person is air-conditionedas with an area with the presence of a person, and still another problemthat energy conservation is impaired because of the execution ofunnecessary and needless air conditioning as a result of, for example,always running an air conditioning apparatus under a predeterminedcondition even though the heat load distribution in the space to beair-conditioned varies with time depending on criteria such as season,time of day and the number of people present in a room.

Proposed solutions to these prior-art problems include: a technique inwhich distribution of heat load or distribution of people in a space tobe air-conditioned, for example, is detected, and based on the detectedinformation, the characteristic of an air flow discharged through anoutlet of an indoor unit, e.g., quantity of air discharge, temperatureof air discharge, velocity of air discharge or direction of airdischarge, is appropriately controlled, thus performing air conditioningthat achieves comfort at all times and accomplishes outstanding energyconservation (see Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 5-203244and Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 5-306829, for example);and another technique in which an infrared sensor is used as a means fordetecting, for example, distribution of heat load (see JapaneseUnexamined Patent Publication No. 5-20659, for example).

Solution

However, although the proposed prior-art techniques described above aswell-known examples are theoretically thought to provide necessaryfunctionality and make the expected effects obtainable, the technicaldisclosures thereof are not implementable or not realistic, andtherefore, the fact is that the above-described techniques are not yetbrought into practical use. Accordingly, there is a strong demand thatpractice of the above-described techniques be established andimplemented as soon as possible. In addition, a control mode suitablefor achievement of the comfort of air conditioning and energyconservation is likewise demanded.

Hence, the object of the present invention is to achieve both of comfortand energy conservation with the use of an air conditioning apparatusincluding: a detection means for detecting, for example, a heat load; anair flow changing means for changing the characteristic of a dischargedair flow; and a control means for the air flow changing means, byproviding each of these means in more implementable and realistic formto promote the practical use thereof and by providing a control mode ofair conditioning suitable for improvement of comfort and energyconservation.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

The present invention employs the following arrangements asimplementable solutions to the above-described problems.

A first invention is directed to an air conditioning apparatusincluding: an indoor panel 2 that is disposed at the bottom side of aceiling 50, and is provided with an inlet 3 and a plurality of outlets4, 4, . . . rectangularly surrounding the periphery of the inlet 3;detection means 51 including an infrared sensor 15 for detecting as aradiation temperature the temperature of an object in a space to beair-conditioned W; air flow changing means 52 for changing thecharacteristic of an air flow discharged from each of the outlets 4, 4,. . . ; and control means 53 for controlling the operation of the airflow changing means 52 based on detection information detected by thedetection means 51 and operation information concerning the operation ofthe air conditioning apparatus. Furthermore, an operational airconditioning mode of the air conditioning apparatus is selectivelyswitched between a temperature uniformization mode in which temperaturedistribution in the space to be air-conditioned W is uniformized, and aspot air conditioning mode in which the surroundings of a human body Mpresent in the space to be air-conditioned W are intensivelyair-conditioned, and the operational air conditioning mode is switchedautomatically by the control means 53 or manually.

In a second invention based on the first invention, the operational airconditioning mode is switched automatically by the control means 53.Furthermore, the space to be air-conditioned W is divided into aplurality of areas, and the operational air conditioning mode is set tothe temperature uniformization mode when it is detected by the detectionmeans 51 that the percentage of the area with the presence of a humanbody M to the plurality of areas is above a predetermined level, whilethe operational air conditioning mode is set to the spot airconditioning mode when it is detected by the detection means 51 that thepercentage is below the predetermined level.

In a third invention based on the first invention, the operational airconditioning mode is switched automatically by the control means 53.Furthermore, the operational air conditioning mode is switched to thetemperature uniformization mode when it is detected by the detectionmeans 51 that the level of a load applied to the overall space to beair-conditioned W is above a predetermined level, while the operationalair conditioning mode is switched to the spot air conditioning mode whenit is detected by the detection means 51 that the load level is belowthe predetermined level.

In a fourth invention based on the first, second or third invention, theoperational air conditioning mode is continuously set to the temperatureuniformization mode during a predetermined time period subsequent to thestart of air conditioning operation or the switching of the operationalair conditioning mode, and after the predetermined time has beenelapsed, the control over the switching of the operational airconditioning mode is carried out based on the detection informationdetected by the infrared sensor 15.

In a fifth invention based on the first, second or third invention, theswitching of the operational air conditioning mode is executed based oneach time period of a day.

In a sixth invention based on the first, second, third, fourth or fifthinvention, the control of air conditioning capacity is carried out basedon the temperature of radiation emitted from an object in apredetermined area which is detected by the detection means 51, and aset temperature that has been set in advance.

In a seventh invention based on the sixth invention, a recommendable settemperature is used instead of the set temperature depending on the loadlevel detected by the detection means 51.

In an eighth invention based on the first, second, third, fourth, fifth,sixth or seventh invention, the detection means 51 further includes, inaddition to the infrared sensor 15, a temperature and humidity sensor 16for detecting the temperature of an intake air taken into the inlet 3.

In a ninth invention based on the eighth invention, the infrared sensor15 is formed to detect the position of a human body in the space to beair-conditioned W, and the temperature and humidity sensor 16 is formedto detect the temperature of an intake air.

In a tenth invention based on the ninth invention, a plurality of thetemperature and humidity sensors 16 are provided so that eachtemperature and humidity sensor 16 detects the temperature of an intakeair from an associated one of the areas of the space to beair-conditioned W. Furthermore, the radiation temperature from each ofthe areas detected by the infrared sensor 15 and the intake airtemperature from each of the areas detected by the associated one of thetemperature and humidity sensors 16, 16, . . . are each assigned apredetermined weight and are summed to determine the measurementtemperature of each of the areas. In addition, the weight assignment tothe radiation temperature and the intake air temperature are made suchthat the weight assigned to the intake air temperature is increased inthe temperature uniformization mode, and the weight assigned to theradiation temperature is increased in the spot air conditioning mode.

In an eleventh invention based on the first, second, third, fourth,fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth invention, the air flowchanging means 52 includes: an air quantity distribution mechanism 10for changing the ratio of distribution of air quantities discharged fromthe outlets 4, 4, . . . ; a first flap 12 for changing the lateraldischarge direction of an air flow discharged from the associated outlet4; and a second flap 13 for changing the longitudinal dischargedirection of the air flow discharged from the associated outlet 4.Furthermore, the air quantity distribution mechanism 10, the first flap12 and the second flap 13 associated with each of the outlets 4, 4, . .. are formed so that they are operable independently and separately fromtheir counterparts.

In a twelfth invention based on the first, second, third, fourth, fifth,sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth invention, the air flow changingmeans 52 includes: an air quantity distribution mechanism 10 forchanging the ratio of distribution of air quantities discharged from theoutlets 4, 4, . . . ; a first flap 12 for changing the lateral dischargedirection of an air flow discharged from the associated outlet 4; and asecond flap 13 for changing the longitudinal discharge direction of theair flow discharged from the associated outlet 4. Furthermore, the airquantity distribution mechanism 10 and the first flap 12 associated witheach of the outlets 4, 4, . . . are formed so that they are operableindependently and separately from their counterparts. On the other hand,the second flap 13 associated with each of the outlets 4, 4, . . . isformed to operate together with its counterpart.

In a thirteenth invention based on the first, second, third, fourth,fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh or twelfthinvention, the air quantity distribution mechanism 10 and the first flap12 are each provided in an upstream region of a discharge duct 14continuous with the outlet 4. Furthermore, a driving mechanism 29 forthe air quantity distribution mechanism 10 and a driving mechanism 30for the first flap 12 are provided at respective longitudinal ends ofthe discharge duct 14.

In a fourteenth invention based on the thirteenth invention, the airquantity distribution mechanism 10 includes a distribution shutter 11attached so that the shutter 11 is allowed to assume a position adjacentto a side wall of the discharge duct 14 extending in a longitudinaldirection thereof, and to tilt toward an inward region of the dischargeduct 14. Furthermore, the distribution shutter 11 is formed to assume aposition adjacent to the longitudinally extending side wall of thedischarge duct 14 when the area of an opening of the discharge duct 14is increased, and to assume a position at an upstream side region of thedischarge duct 14 when the area of the opening is reduced.

-Effects of Invention-

The present invention achieves the following effects by employing theabove-described arrangements.

(A) According to the first invention, the operational air conditioningmode of the air conditioning apparatus is selectively switched betweenthe temperature uniformization mode in which temperature distribution inthe space to be air-conditioned W is uniformized, and the spot airconditioning mode in which the surroundings of a human body M present inthe space to be air-conditioned W are intensively air-conditioned, andthe operational air conditioning mode is switched automatically by thecontrol means 53 or manually. Therefore, for example, in a situationwhere people are present evenly in the space to be air-conditioned W,air conditioning is performed in the temperature uniformization mode,thus obtaining a comfortably air-conditioned state in all the areas ofthe space to be air-conditioned W.

Besides, in a situation where people are scattered in the space to beair-conditioned W, air conditioning is performed in the spot airconditioning mode to intensively air-condition the surroundings of thepeople, thus making it possible to ensure the comfort of airconditioning. At the same time, air conditioning is not provided to aregion without the presence of a person, i.e., needless and wasteful airconditioning is not provided, which improves energy conservation, forexample, thus achieving both of the comfort of air conditioning andenergy conservation.

Further, the first invention has an advantage that when the switching ofthe operational air conditioning mode is automatically performed by thecontrol means 53, no complicated manipulation is required, thus carryingout operational control of the air conditioning apparatus with ease.

Furthermore, the first invention has another advantage that when theswitching of the operational air conditioning mode is performedmanually, a person who directly enjoys the comfort of air conditioningin the space to be air-conditioned W not only achieves energyconservation and comfort but also can further improve the comfort byreflecting his or her own preference in the switching of the operationalair conditioning mode.

(B) According to the second invention, in addition to the effects setforth in the section (A), the following unique effects are obtained.

In this invention directed to the air conditioning apparatus in whichthe operational air conditioning mode is switched automatically by thecontrol means 53, the space to be air-conditioned W is divided into aplurality of areas, and the operational air conditioning mode is set tothe temperature uniformization mode when it is detected by the detectionmeans 51 that the percentage of the area with the presence of a humanbody M to the plurality of areas is above a predetermined level, whilethe operational air conditioning mode is set to the spot airconditioning mode when it is detected by the detection means 51 that thepercentage is below the predetermined level.

Therefore, during air conditioning performed in the temperatureuniformization mode, the temperatures of the plurality of areas areuniformized to allow all the people present in the plurality of areas toenjoy highly comfortable air conditioning.

On the other hand, during air conditioning performed in the spot airconditioning mode, only the area with the presence of a human body Mwhich is to be air-conditioned is intensively air-conditioned, thusobtaining the comfort of air conditioning in the area. At the same time,since needless air conditioning is not provided to the area without thepresence of a human body M, energy conservation is ensured, for example,thus achieving both of the comfort of air conditioning and energyconservation.

Furthermore, since the percentage of the area with the presence of ahuman body M is employed as the criterion for switching the operationalair conditioning mode, the switching of the mode can be carried outbased on whether or not there is the necessity for air conditioning, andthus it can be expected that the comfort of air conditioning and energyconservation will be further improved.

(C) According to the third invention, in addition to the effects setforth in the section (A), the following unique effects are obtained.

In this invention directed to the air conditioning apparatus in whichthe operational air conditioning mode is switched automatically by thecontrol means 53, the operational air conditioning mode is switched tothe temperature uniformization mode when it is detected by the detectionmeans 51 that the level of a load applied to the overall space to beair-conditioned W is above a predetermined level, while the operationalair conditioning mode is switched to the spot air conditioning mode whenit is detected by the detection means 51 that the load level is belowthe predetermined level.

Therefore, if the load level in the overall space to be air-conditionedW is above the predetermined level, i.e., if there is a great demandthat the temperature of the overall space to be air-conditioned W beincreased or decreased, air conditioning is carried out in thetemperature uniformization mode, thus satisfying the demand andobtaining an outstanding comfort. On the other hand, air conditioning iscarried out in the spot air conditioning mode if the load level in theoverall space to be air-conditioned W is below the predetermined level,i.e., if a demand for an intensive increase or decrease in only thetemperature of a specified region such as a region with the presence ofa lot of people is greater than a demand for an increase or decrease inthe temperature of the overall space to be air-conditioned W.Accordingly, the immediate demand is satisfied to obtain an outstandingcomfort, and at the same time, air conditioning is not provided to theregion in which there is a little necessity for air conditioning, thuspromoting energy conservation, for example, and achieving both of thecomfort of air conditioning and energy conservation.

(D) According to the fourth invention, in addition to the effects setforth in the sections (A), (B) or (C), the following unique effects areobtained.

In this invention, the operational air conditioning mode is continuouslyset to the temperature uniformization mode during a predetermined timeperiod subsequent to the start of air conditioning operation or theswitching of the operational air conditioning mode, and after thepredetermined time period has been elapsed, the control over theswitching of the operational air conditioning mode is carried out basedon the detection information detected by the detection means 51.

Therefore, until the predetermined time period is elapsed, i.e., untilthe operational state of the air conditioning apparatus is stabilized toa certain extent, air conditioning is performed in the temperatureuniformization mode in which the operation of each air flow changingmeans 52, for example, provided to be associated with the correspondingone of the outlets 4, 4, . . . is rarely changed. After the operationalstate of the air conditioning apparatus has been stabilized to a certainextent, air conditioning is performed in the spot air conditioning modein which the operation of each air flow changing means 52, for example,is often changed. Consequently, the air conditioning apparatus is stablyoperated, which eventually promotes the stabilization of the airconditioning characteristic, and thus it can be expected that thecomfort of air conditioning will be further improved.

(E) According to the fifth invention, in addition to the effects setforth in the sections (A), (B) or (C), the following unique effects areobtained.

In this invention, the switching of the operational air conditioningmode is executed based on each time period of a day. For example, when arestaurant is air-conditioned, air conditioning is carried out in thetemperature uniformization mode at mealtime during which the number ofguests is large and a heat load applied from a kitchen is high, becauseat this time period there is a great demand that comfort be ensured byuniformly air-conditioning the entire area of the restaurant. Airconditioning is carried out in the spot air conditioning mode at timeperiods other than mealtime, i.e., at the time periods during which thenumber of guests is a few and a heat load applied from the kitchen islow, because at these time periods there is a demand that only the areaof the restaurant where a guest is present be intensivelyair-conditioned in consideration of both of comfort and energyconservation. In this manner, air conditioning is carried out inaccordance with the load level that varies depending on each time periodof a day, thus making it possible to further improve the comfort of airconditioning and energy conservation.

(F) According to the sixth invention, in addition to the effects setforth in the sections (A), (B), (C), (D) or (E), the following uniqueeffects are obtained.

In this invention, the control of air conditioning capacity is carriedout based on the temperature of radiation emitted from an object in apredetermined area which is detected by the detection means 51, and aset temperature that has been set in advance.

Therefore, it can be expected that energy conservation will be improvedby avoiding the operation of the air conditioning apparatus whichprovides an excessive capacity in reducing the actual load level in thespace to be air-conditioned W, and it can also be expected that thecomfort of air conditioning will be improved by avoiding the operationof the air conditioning apparatus which provides an insufficientcapacity in reducing the load level.

(G) According to the seventh invention, in addition to the effects setforth in the section (F), the following unique effects are obtained.

In this invention, a recommendable set temperature is used instead ofthe set temperature depending on the load level detected by thedetection means 51.

Therefore, when cooling operation is performed, the set temperature isnormally set in accordance with the maximum load applied during the daytime, and when heating operation is performed, the set temperature isset in accordance with the maximum load applied in the early morning.Accordingly, in performing cooling operation and heating operation, thecontrol of air conditioning capacity is carried out based on the settemperature when the load level is high, and is carried out based on therecommendable set temperature when the load level is low. As a result,needless air conditioning capacity is not provided, thus furtherimproving energy conservation.

(H) According to the eighth invention, in addition to the effects setforth in the sections (A), (B), (C), (D), (E), (F) or (G), the followingunique effects are obtained.

In this invention, the detection means 51 further includes, in additionto the infrared sensor 15, a temperature and humidity sensor 16 fordetecting the temperature of an intake air taken into the inlet 3.Therefore, the radiation temperature detected by the infrared sensor 15,for example, is corrected using the temperature of an intake airdetected by the temperature and humidity sensor 16, and the correctedvalue is employed as the average temperature of the space to beair-conditioned W.

Thus, the reliability of the average temperature of the space to beair-conditioned W is improved compared with the case where the averagetemperature of the space to be air-conditioned W is calculated based onthe value detected by the infrared sensor 15, the control of airconditioning capacity carried out based on the average temperature iseventually improved in reliability, and it can be expected that energyconservation in air conditioning will be further improved accordingly.

(I) According to the ninth invention, in addition to the effects setforth in the section (H), the following unique effects are obtained.

In this invention, the infrared sensor 15 is formed to detect theposition of a human body in the space to be air-conditioned W, and thetemperature and humidity sensor 16 is formed to detect the temperatureof an intake air.

Therefore, since the infrared sensor 15 is required to detect only thehuman body position, the processing of information detected by theinfrared sensor 15 can be performed with ease and the control system canbe accordingly simplified compared with the case where the infraredsensor 15 detects, for example, both of the human body position andtemperature distribution inside a room. At the same time, the requiredprecision can be ensured in detecting the temperature distributioninside the room with the use of the temperature sensor or thetemperature and humidity sensor 16 that is less expensive than theinfrared sensor 15. Due to a synergistic effect obtained by the use ofthese sensors, the ensuring of accuracy in detection information andcost reduction are both achieved.

(J) According to the tenth invention, in addition to the effects setforth in the section (I), the following unique effects are obtained.

In this invention, a plurality of the temperature and humidity sensors16 are provided so that each temperature and humidity sensor 16 detectsthe temperature of an intake air from an associated one of the areas ofthe space to be air-conditioned W, and the radiation temperature fromeach of the areas detected by the infrared sensor 15 and the intake airtemperature from each of the areas detected by the associated one of thetemperature and humidity sensors 16, 16, . . . are each assigned apredetermined weight and summed to determine the measurement temperatureof each of the areas. The weight assignment to the radiation temperatureand the intake air temperature are made such that the weight assigned tothe intake air temperature is increased in the temperatureuniformization mode, and the weight assigned to the radiationtemperature is increased in the spot air conditioning mode.

Therefore, when air conditioning is performed in the temperatureuniformization mode, it is allowed to eliminate, to the extent possible,an error caused by an unusual detection value that is detected by theinfrared sensor 15 due to variations in the rate of heat radiation of anobject, and thus the air conditioning apparatus is controlled using themeasurement temperature obtained mainly based on the intake airtemperature detected by the temperature and humidity sensor 16, i.e.,the reliable temperature that is unlikely to be an unusual detectionvalue. On the other hand, when air conditioning is performed in the spotair conditioning mode, the air conditioning apparatus is controlledusing the measurement temperature obtained mainly based on the radiationtemperature of a human body that needs an intensive air conditioning,thus realizing more comfortable air conditioning.

(K) In the air conditioning apparatus according to the eleventhinvention, in addition to the effects set forth in the sections (A),(B), (C), (D), (E), (F), (G), (H), (I) or (J), the following uniqueeffects are obtained.

In this invention based on the first, second, third, fourth, fifth,sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth invention, the air flow changingmeans 52 is formed to include: an air quantity distribution mechanism 10for changing the ratio of distribution of air quantities discharged fromthe outlets 4, 4, . . . ; a first flap 12 for changing the lateraldischarge direction of an air flow discharged from the associated outlet4; and a second flap 13 for changing the longitudinal dischargedirection of the air flow discharged from the associated outlet 4, andthe air quantity distribution mechanism 10, the first flap 12 and thesecond flap 13 associated with each of the outlets 4, 4, . . . areformed so that they are operable independently and separately from theircounterparts.

Therefore, the characteristic of an air flow discharged from each of theoutlets 4, 4, . . . can be minutely controlled, and the comfort of airconditioning and energy conservation are further improved accordingly.

(L) In the air conditioning apparatus according to the twelfthinvention, in addition to the effects set forth in the sections (A),(B), (C), (D), (E), (F), (G), (H), (I) or (J), the following uniqueeffects are obtained.

In this invention based on the first, second, third, fourth, fifth,sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth or tenth invention, the air flow changingmeans 52 is formed to include: an air quantity distribution mechanism 10for changing the ratio of distribution of air quantities discharged fromthe outlets 4, 4, . . . ; a first flap 12 for changing the lateraldischarge direction of an air flow discharged from the associated outlet4; and a second flap 13 for changing the longitudinal dischargedirection of the air flow discharged from the associated outlet 4, andthe air quantity distribution mechanism 10 and the first flap 12associated with each of the outlets 4, 4, . . . are formed so that theyare operable independently and separately from their counterparts; onthe other hand, the second flap 13 associated with each of the outlets4, 4, . . . is formed to operate together with its counterpart.

Therefore, in the air conditioning apparatus according to the presentinvention, the characteristic of an air flow discharged from each of theoutlets 4, 4, . . . can be minutely controlled by the air quantitydistribution mechanism 10 and the first flap 12. This improves thecomfort of air conditioning and energy conservation compared with thearrangement in which the air quantity distribution mechanism 10 and thefirst flap 12 associated with each the outlets 4, 4, . . . are operatedtogether with their counterparts, for example. Furthermore, the secondflaps 13, 13, . . . each provided in the associated one of the outlets4, 4, . . . can be driven by using a single driving source.Consequently, compared with the case where the second flaps 13, 13, . .. are driven by separate driving sources, for example, the cost andstructural complexity of the air conditioning apparatus can be reducedby the decrease in the number of the driving sources to be provided,which enables not only the improvement in the comfort of airconditioning and energy conservation but also the promotion of costreduction for the air conditioning apparatus.

(M) According to the thirteenth invention, in addition to the effectsset forth in the sections (A), (B), (C), (D), (E), (F), (G), (H), (I),(J), (K) or (L), the following unique effects are obtained.

In this invention based on the first, second, third, fourth, fifth,sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, or twelfth invention,the air quantity distribution mechanism 10 and the first flap 12 areeach provided in an upstream region of a discharge duct 14 continuouswith the outlet 4, and a driving mechanism 29 for the air quantitydistribution mechanism 10 and a driving mechanism 30 for the first flap12 are provided at respective longitudinal ends of the discharge duct14.

Therefore, the air quantity distribution mechanism 10, the first flap 12and the driving mechanisms 29 and 30 thereof are compactly provided inthe region of the discharge duct 14 having a restricted space. As aresult, the indoor panel 2 can be reduced in thickness, i.e., size.

(N) According to the fourteenth invention, in addition to the effectsset forth in the section (M), the following unique effects are obtained.

In this invention based on the thirteenth invention, the air quantitydistribution mechanism 10 includes a distribution shutter 11 attached sothat the shutter 11 is allowed to assume a position adjacent to a sidewall of the discharge duct 14 extending in a longitudinal directionthereof, and to tilt toward an inward region of the discharge duct 14.The distribution shutter 11 is formed to assume a position adjacent tothe longitudinally extending side wall of the discharge duct 14 when thearea of an opening of the discharge duct 14 is increased, and to assumea position at an upstream side region of the discharge duct 14 when thearea of the opening is reduced.

Therefore, when the opening area of the discharge duct 14 is increased,i.e., when the quantity of air discharge is increased, the distributionshutter 11 assumes a position at the region of the discharge duct 14where the velocity of flow is low, so as to reduce draft resistancecaused by the distribution shutter 11, thus ensuring air quantity withcertainty and reducing noise due to a blown air. On the other hand, whenthe opening area of the discharge duct 14 is reduced, i.e., the quantityof air discharge is reduced, the distribution shutter 11 assumes aposition at the upstream side region of the discharge duct 14, thussuppressing, to the extent possible, the disturbance of an air flow at aregion of the outlet 4 located at the downstream side end of thedischarge duct 14. As a result, it is allowed to prevent condensationfrom occurring at a portion of the indoor panel 2 adjacent to the outlet4, and contamination from occurring at a ceiling surface due to thecollision of the disturbed discharged air flow thereto.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an oblique view of an indoor unit of an air conditioningapparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention, asviewed from the inside of a room.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a principal portion of theindoor unit shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is an oblique view of an indoor unit of an air conditioningapparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention, asviewed from the inside of a room.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a principal portion of theindoor unit shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a first exemplarystructure of an air quantity distribution mechanism provided in anoutlet of an indoor unit.

FIG. 6 is a section view taken along the arrow VI—VI shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a second exemplarystructure of an air quantity distribution mechanism provided in anoutlet of an indoor unit.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a third exemplarystructure of an air quantity distribution mechanism provided in anoutlet of an indoor unit.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a first method for drivingsecond flaps provided in outlets of an indoor unit.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a second method for drivingsecond flaps provided in outlets of an indoor unit.

FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating the first half of the process ofcontrol in a first exemplary operational control for an overall airconditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating the latter half of the process ofcontrol in the first exemplary operational control for an overall airconditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating the first half of the process ofcontrol in a second exemplary operational control for an overall airconditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating the latter half of the process ofcontrol in the second exemplary operational control for an overall airconditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart illustrating the first half of the process ofcontrol in a third exemplary operational control for an overall airconditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

FIG. 16 is a flow chart illustrating the latter half of the process ofcontrol in the third exemplary operational control for an overall airconditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

FIG. 17 is a flow chart illustrating the first half of the process ofcontrol in a fourth exemplary operational control for an overall airconditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

FIG. 18 is a flow chart illustrating the latter half of the process ofcontrol in the fourth exemplary operational control for an overall airconditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

FIG. 19 is a flow chart illustrating the first half of the process ofcontrol in a fifth exemplary operational control for an overall airconditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

FIG. 20 is a flow chart illustrating the latter half of the process ofcontrol in the fifth exemplary operational control for an overall airconditioning apparatus including an indoor unit.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating exemplary areas to be air-conditionedinside a room.

FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating another exemplary areas to beair-conditioned inside a room.

FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram illustrating how air conditioning isperformed in a temperature uniformization mode.

FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram illustrating how air conditioning isperformed in a spot air conditioning mode.

FIG. 25 is a graph illustrating the relationship between set temperatureand recommendable set temperature during cooling operation.

FIG. 26 is a graph illustrating the relationship between set temperatureand recommendable set temperature during heating operation.

FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary operation for theautomatic adjustment of recommendable set temperature.

FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary setting of an operationalair conditioning mode for each time period of a day.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail based onpreferred embodiments thereof.

I: First Embodiment of Air Conditioning Apparatus

FIGS. 1 and 2 show an indoor unit Z of a separate type air conditioningapparatus as the first embodiment of an air conditioning apparatusaccording the present invention. The indoor unit Z is a ceiling-embeddedtype indoor unit embedded in a ceiling 50 above the inside of a room,and has a basic structure similar to a conventionally known one.Specifically, the indoor unit Z includes: a rectangular boxlike casing 1embedded in the ceiling 50 so that the casing 1 is located above theceiling 50; and a rectangular flat-shaped indoor panel 2 that is placedat an opening of a lower end of the casing 1 from the inside of theroom. The indoor panel 2 is provided at its center with an inlet 3formed by a rectangular opening. Provided outwardly of the inlet 3 arefour outlets 4, 4, . . . that are formed by elongated rectangularopenings so as to rectangularly surround the inlet 3, and that are eachextended substantially parallel to an associated outer edge of theindoor panel 2.

Further, the casing 1 is provided, at its inner space extending from theinlet 3 to each of the outlets 4, 4, . . . , with an air passage 17 inwhich a centrifugal fan 6 is located coaxially with the inlet 3, and aheat exchanger 5 is located outwardly of the fan 6 so as to surroundthis. Furthermore, a bell mouth 7 is provided at the suction side of thefan 6, and a filter 9 and a suction grill 8 are placed in the inlet 3.

On the other hand, provided upstream of the outlet 4 is a discharge duct14 having an elongated cross section continuous with the outlet 4 andextending upward to form a downstream-side region of the air passage 17.Provided in the discharge duct 14 are an air quantity distributionmechanism 10, a first flap 12 and a second flap 13 that are describedlater. It should be noted that the air quantity distribution mechanism10, first flap 12 and second flap 13 constitute an “air flow changingmeans 52” recited in the claims.

In addition, provided at a portion of the indoor panel 2 located betweenthe openings of the outlets 4, 4, . . . is an infrared sensor 15 thatconstitutes a “detection means 51” recited in the claims. Locatedadjacent to the discharge duct 14 is a controller 18 (equivalent to“control means 53” recited in the claims) for controlling, upon receiptof detection information from the infrared sensor 15, the operations ofthe air quantity distribution mechanism 10, first flap 12 and secondflap 13 of the air flow changing means 52, for example.

First, the specific configuration of each of the above-mentionedconstituting elements will be described.

(I-a) Configuration of Air Quantity Distribution Mechanism 10

The air quantity distribution mechanism 10 serves to increase ordecrease the quantity of an air discharged through the associated outlet4, thereby adjusting the ratio of distribution of air quantities fromthe outlets 4, 4, . . . . As shown in FIGS. 5 through 7, the airquantity distribution mechanism 10 includes right and left distributionshutters 11, 11 that are provided to make a pair at regions of thedischarge duct 14 adjacent to side walls thereof each extending in alongitudinal direction of the discharge duct 14, with the shuttersfacing each other in a transverse direction of the discharge duct 14.The specific configuration of the pair of distribution shutters 11, 11is as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. Guide grooves 25 are formed to extendvertically along the side walls of the discharge duct 14, and one endsof the pair of distribution shutters 11, 11 can be moved verticallyalong the guide grooves 25 by engaging said one ends thereto. The otherends of the pair of the distribution shutters 11, 11 are connected to apair of racks 27, 27 that mesh with a gear 28, which is driven androtated by a motor 29 (equivalent to “driving mechanism 29” recited inthe claim), on both sides of the gear 28 in a radial direction thereofwith the shaft of the gear 28 sandwiched between the pair of racks 27,27.

Therefore, in the air quantity distribution mechanism 10, upon selectiverotation of the gear 28 in either a forward or reverse direction by themotor 29, the paired racks 27, 27 meshed with the gear 28 are moved inopposite directions. With the movement of the paired racks 27, 27 inopposite directions, the paired distribution shutters 11, 11 movevertically while changing their tilt angles so as to increase ordecrease the degree of protrusion toward the center of the dischargeduct 14, thereby decreasing or increasing the area of an opening of thedischarge duct 14.

When the opening area of the discharge duct 14 is increased by the airquantity distribution mechanism 10 (i.e., when the air quantity is setat “large”), the paired distribution shutters 11, 11 each assume asubstantially upright position and retract toward the associated sidewall of the discharge duct 14, thus reducing the degree of protrusiontoward the center of the discharge duct 14. On the other hand, when theopening area of the discharge duct 14 is reduced by the air quantitydistribution mechanism 10 (i.e., when the air quantity is set at“small”), the paired distribution shutters 11, 11 each assume asubstantially horizontal position to increase the degree of protrusiontoward the center of the discharge duct 14, and the air quantitydistribution mechanism 10 is overall placed at an upstream-side regionof the discharge duct 14.

Accordingly, by adopting the above-described configuration, while theopening area of the discharge duct 14 is increased, i.e., while thequantity of an air discharge is increased, each distribution shutter 11is placed at a region of the discharge duct 14 where the velocity offlow is low; thus, draft resistance caused by the distribution shutter11 is reduced, the air quantity is ensured with certainty, and the noiseproduced when an air is sent is reduced. On the other hand, while theopening area of the discharge duct 14 is reduced, i.e., while thequantity of an air discharge is reduced, each distribution shutter 11 isplaced at the upstream-side region of the discharge duct 14; thus, thedisturbance of an air flow at a region of the outlet 4 located at thedownstream end of the discharge duct 14 is suppressed as much aspossible. This makes it possible to obtain tremendous effects such asthe prevention of condensation in the vicinity of the outlet 4, and theprevention of contamination of the ceiling surface due to the collisionof a disturbed discharged air flow thereto.

It should be noted that since each air quantity distribution mechanism10 is provided to be associated with the corresponding one of theoutlets 4, 4, . . . , the operations of the air quantity distributionmechanisms 10, 10, . . . are controlled independently and separately.Besides, the operation of each air quantity distribution mechanism 10 iscontrolled by the after-mentioned controller 18 (the configuration ofwhich will be described later) based on detection information from theafter-mentioned infrared sensor 15.

Meanwhile, as described above, each air quantity distribution mechanism10 includes the distribution shutter 11 that tilts by using, as asupporting point, one end thereof located adjacent to the associatedside wall of the discharge duct 14 and movable in a flow direction inthe discharge duct 14. In addition, when the area of the opening isincreased, each distribution shutter 11 assumes a position adjacent tothe associated side wall of the discharge duct 14 so as to ensure a wideopening in the vicinity of the center of the duct where the velocity offlow is high. In other words, each distribution shutter 11 is retractedtoward the associated side wall of the discharge duct 14. On the otherhand, when the area of the opening is reduced, each air quantitydistribution mechanism 10 has configurative and functional features thateach distribution shutter 11 is placed at the upstream-side region ofthe discharge duct 14. As a consequence, the unique effects can beprovided as described below.

The air quantity distribution mechanism 10 does not have to be limitedto the structure as in the aforementioned embodiment so long as theabove-described configurative and functional features are provided.Therefore, other than the aforementioned embodiment, the structure shownin FIG. 7 or the structure shown in FIG. 8, for example, can be employedwhen deemed appropriate. These structures will be briefly describedbelow.

The air quantity distribution mechanism 10 shown in FIG. 7 is configuredso that the paired distribution shutters 11, 11 are each movable to andfro in a transverse direction of the discharge duct 14 at its upstreamregion. The distribution shutters 11, 11 are driven by the motor 29 viathe racks 27 and the gear 28 meshed therewith in the same way as thoseof the aforementioned air quantity distribution mechanism 10 shown inFIG. 3. Also in the air quantity distribution mechanism 10 shown in FIG.7, when the area of the opening is increased, the distribution shutters11, 11 each assume a position adjacent to the associated side wall ofthe discharge duct 14 so as to ensure a wide opening in the vicinity ofthe center of the duct where the velocity of flow is high. On the otherhand, when the area of the opening is reduced, each distribution shutter11 is placed at the upstream-side region of the discharge duct 14.

The air quantity distribution mechanism 10 shown in FIG. 8 includes asingle distribution shutter 11 with one end thereof tiltably pivoted atthe upstream-side region of the discharge duct 14 located adjacent toone side wall of the discharge duct 14, and the distribution shutter 11is driven and rotated by a motor 35 via gear 33 and gear 34 that meshwith each other. The air quantity distribution mechanism 10 is allowedto selectively assume a position, indicated by the solid line in FIG. 8,for increasing the area of opening, and another position, indicated bythe broken line in FIG. 8, for reducing the area of opening. Also in theair quantity distribution mechanism 10 shown in FIG. 8, when the area ofthe opening is increased, the distribution shutter 11 assumes a positionadjacent to the side wall of the discharge duct 14 to ensure a wideopening in the vicinity of the center of the duct where the velocity offlow is high; on the other hand, when the area of the opening isreduced, the distribution shutter 11 is placed at the upstream-sideregion of the discharge duct 14.

(I-b) Configuration of First Flap 12

The first flap 12 serves to adjust the lateral discharge direction of anair flow that is discharged from the outlet 4 to the inside of the roomafter having passing through the discharge duct 14. As shown in FIG. 2,the first flap 12 is formed to have a geometry of a plate extendingalong the cross-sectional shape of the duct from the discharge duct 14to the discharge duct 14, and is supported by a supporting shaft 23 soas to be swingable with respect to the side walls of the discharge duct14 extending in the longitudinal direction thereof. As shown in FIG. 6,a plurality of the first flaps 12 are provided in the discharge duct 14so as to be spaced a certain distance apart in the longitudinaldirection thereof, and are each driven in a swingable direction by amotor 30 (equivalent to “driving mechanism 30” recited in the claims)via a link bar 24 that connects the first flaps 12 to each other,thereby changing tilt angles thereof. The first flaps 12 adjust thelateral discharge direction of an air flow discharged from the outlet 4by having their tilt angles changed, and are allowed to swing by havingtheir tilt angles increased and decreased continuously if necessary.Furthermore, the first flaps 12, 12, . . . are provided in theassociated outlets 4, 4, . . . . The operations of the first flaps 12,12, . . . are controlled separately and independently, or together bythe controller 18.

In this embodiment, as described above, the air quantity distributionmechanism 10 and the first flaps 12 are provided at the upstream-sideregion of the discharge duct 14 continuous with the outlet 4, and thedriving mechanism 29 for the air quantity distribution mechanism 10 andthe driving mechanism 30 for the first flaps 12 are provided atrespective longitudinal ends of the discharge duct 14. By employing thisarrangement, the air quantity distribution mechanism 10, first flaps 12,and driving mechanisms 29, 30 for driving them can be compactly providedin the region of the discharge duct 14 on which spatial restrictions areimposed, resulting in the thin and small-sized indoor panel 2.

(I-c) Second Flap 13

As shown in FIG. 2, each second flap 13 is formed by a band plate memberhaving a curved cross-sectional shape. Each second flap 13 is providedat a downstream-side region of the discharge duct 14 located adjacent tothe outlet 4, is allowed to adjust longitudinal discharge direction ofan air flow by tilting around an upper edge thereof, and is allowed toswing by having its tilt angle increased and decreased continuously ifnecessary.

Each second flap 13 is provided in the associated one of the outlets 4,4, . . . , and as a method for driving the second flaps 13, 13, . . . ,a method for driving the flaps together and a method for driving theflaps separately are conceivable. As shown in FIG. 9, in the method fordriving the flaps together, the second flaps 13, 13, . . . provided inthe corresponding outlets 4, 4, . . . are connected to each other viainterlocking members 32, 32 . . . , and the second flaps 13, 13, . . .are driven by a single motor 31. To the contrary, as shown in FIG. 10,in the method for driving the flaps separately, the second flaps 13, 13,. . . provided in the corresponding outlets 4, 4, . . . are drivenseparately by motors 31, 31, . . . each used exclusively for theassociated one of the second flaps 13, 13, . . . . If these methods arecompared to each other, the former method, i.e., the method for drivingthe flaps together, is advantageous in that the structure of the drivingmechanism is simple and thus the cost thereof is reduced since the flapscan be driven by the single motor 31. To the contrary, the lattermethod, i.e., the method for driving the flaps separately, isadvantageous in that the longitudinal discharge directions of air flowsdischarged from the outlets 4, 4, . . . can be separately and minutelyadjusted.

(I-d) Operational Relationship between Constituting Elements of Air FlowChanging Means 52

The present embodiment proposes the following two configurationsconcerning the operational relationship between the air quantitydistribution mechanism 10, first flaps 12, and second flap 13 thatconstitute each air flow changing means 52.

In a first configuration, the air quantity distribution mechanisms 10,first flaps 12 and second flaps 13 associated with the respectiveoutlets 4, 4, . . . are formed so that they are operable independentlyand separately. According to this operational configuration, thecharacteristics of air flows discharged from the outlets 4, 4, . . . canbe minutely controlled, for example, with the air quantity distributionmechanisms 10, which is effective in improving the comfort of airconditioning and energy conservation.

In a second configuration, among the air quantity distributionmechanisms 10, first flaps 12 and second flaps 13, the air quantitydistribution mechanisms 10 and first flaps 12 associated with therespective outlets 4, 4, . . . are formed so that they are operableindependently and separately, while the second flaps 13 associated withthe respective outlets 4, 4, . . . are operated together. According tothis operational configuration, the characteristics of air flowsdischarged from the outlets 4, 4, . . . can be minutely controlled bythe air quantity distribution mechanisms 10 and the first flaps 12.Thus, as compared with the configuration in which the air quantitydistribution mechanisms 10 and the first flaps 12 provided in theassociated outlets 4, 4, . . . are operated together, for example, thecomfort of air conditioning and energy conservation can be improved, andthe second flaps 13, 13, . . . provided in the outlets 4, 4, . . . canbe driven by a single driving source. Therefore, as compared with thecase where the second flaps 13, 13, . . . are driven by separate drivingsources, for example, the number of the driving sources to be providedis reduced, and the cost and structural complexity thereof can beaccordingly reduced. That is, the improvement in the comfort of airconditioning and energy conservation, and the promotion of costreduction of the air conditioning apparatus are both achieved.

(I-e) Configuration of Infrared Sensor 15

The infrared sensor 15 is equivalent to “detection means 51” recited inthe claims. If the indoor unit Z has been provided at the ceiling 50,the infrared sensor 15 detects the radiation temperature of an objectsuch as a wall surface, floor surface or human body inside the room(equivalent to “space to be air-conditioned W” recited in the claims),outputs the detected temperature to the controller 18 as a roomtemperature, and outputs information on a high radiation temperatureregion to the controller 18 as information concerning the position of ahuman body. The controller 18 utilizes these pieces of information asfactors for controlling the air flow changing means 52.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the infrared sensor 15 is provided at one offour corners of an outer region of the indoor panel 2, i.e., at a regionof the indoor panel 2 located between two of the four openings of theoutlets 4, 4, . . . . In this case, according to the present embodiment,the infrared sensor 15 is mounted to the panel via a scanning mechanism20, thus enabling the scanning and detection of body temperature in allthe areas inside the room with the use of this single infrared sensor15. It should be noted that the scanning mechanism 20 is formed tooscillate the infrared sensor 15 by a first motor 21 having a horizontalshaft and to rotate the infrared sensor 15 by a second motor 22 having avertical shaft, and allows the infrared sensor 15 to be supported by thecasing 1 with the infrared sensor 15 inserted into a sensor mountinghole 19 provided in the indoor panel 2.

In this embodiment, suitable for the infrared sensor 15 is, for example,a sensor of the type in which a single element is provided to carry outdetection in a limited area of a detection target range, a sensor of thetype in which elements are one-dimensionally arrayed to carry outdetection in respective areas of a detection target range divided in onedirection, or a sensor of the type in which elements aretwo-dimensionally arrayed to carry out detection in respective areas ofa detection target range divided in two orthogonal directions.

Furthermore, in the present embodiment, when body temperature (i.e.,radiation temperature) and temperature distribution inside the room aredetected by the infrared sensor 15, the space inside the room, i.e., thedetection target space (space to be air-conditioned W recited in theclaims) for the infrared sensor 15, is imaginarily divided into fourareas (1) through (4) along radial directions with respect to the indoorunit Z so that the areas (1) through (4) are each associated with theposition of the corresponding one of the outlets 4, 4, . . . (see FIG.21). The radiation temperature and human body position are detected ineach of the areas (1) through (4), and then information detected in eachof the areas (1) through (4) is outputted to the controller 18.

(I-f) Controller 18

As described above, the controller 18 controls, based on the informationdetected by the infrared sensor 15, the operations of the air quantitydistribution mechanism 10, first flaps 12 and second flap 13constituting the air flow changing means 52 while associating theconstituting elements with each other, and simultaneously carries outcontrol of air conditioning capacity or temperature control to optimizethe air conditioning, thus making it possible to improve the comfort ofair conditioning or energy conservation.

How the controller 18 carries out control will be described in summaryby providing several exemplary controls, subsequent to the followingdescription made about a second embodiment of an air conditioningapparatus.

II: Second Embodiment of Air Conditioning Apparatus

FIGS. 3 and 4 show an indoor unit Z of a separate type air conditioningapparatus as the second embodiment of an air conditioning apparatusaccording to the present invention. This indoor unit Z is similar inbasic configuration to the indoor unit Z according to the firstembodiment, and is different from the indoor unit Z according to thefirst embodiment in that the indoor unit Z of the present embodiment isprovided with not only the infrared sensor 15 but also anafter-mentioned temperature and humidity sensor 16 as the detectionmeans 51, since the indoor unit Z of the first embodiment is providedwith only the infrared sensor 15 as the detection means 51.

Therefore, only the configuration of the temperature and humidity sensor16 and the arrangement related to this sensor will be described below,and the appropriate descriptions in the first embodiment will bereferenced as for the other configurations and arrangements. It shouldbe noted that the constituting members shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 andsimilar to the counterparts described in the first embodiment areidentified by the same reference characters as those used in FIGS. 1 and2.

In the indoor unit Z of the present embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3 and4, the infrared sensor 15 is provided at a region of the indoor panel 2located between the openings of two of the outlets 4, 4, . . . , and isconfigured to allow scanning with the scanning mechanism 20. On theother hand, the three temperature and humidity sensors 16 are providedin the vicinity of each peripheral side of the inlet 3 so that they arespaced a certain distance apart along the peripheral side, and thus thetwelve temperature and humidity sensors 16 are provided in total. Eachof the temperature and humidity sensors 16, 16, . . . is associated withthe corresponding one of the outlets 4, 4, . . . , and is associatedwith the corresponding one of the four areas (1) through (4) that aredivided as the detection areas for the infrared sensor 15. Therefore,the temperature and humidity sensors 16, 16, . . . detect, for each ofthe areas (1) through (4), the temperature of each intake air (i.e.,intake air temperature) that is taken into the inlet 3 from a region ofthe space belonging to one of the areas (1) through (4).

Consequently, the infrared sensor 15 detects the radiation temperatureand the human body position in each of the areas (1) through (4) of thespace to be air-conditioned W, and the temperature and humidity sensors16 each detect the intake air temperature corresponding to the airtemperature in the associated one of the areas (1) through (4) of thespace to be air-conditioned W. Furthermore, the above-describeddetection method is significantly different from the detection method ofthe first embodiment in which the radiation temperature and human bodyposition in each of the areas (1) through (4) are detected only by theinfrared sensor 15.

In addition, if the detection means 51 is configured to include theinfrared sensor 15 and temperature and humidity sensor 16 as in thepresent embodiment, the following two usages of the sensors areconceivable.

In a first usage, the infrared sensor 15 and the temperature andhumidity sensor 16 are allowed to carry out respective functions, andthe infrared sensor 15 detects only human body position while thetemperature and humidity sensor 16 detects intake air temperature.According to this usage, the infrared sensor 15 needs only detect humanbody position; therefore, as compared with the case where human bodyposition and radiation temperature are both detected, for example, thedetected information is processed more easily and the control system canbe simplified accordingly. At the same time, required accuracy can beensured in detecting temperature distribution inside the room bydetecting intake air temperature with the temperature and humiditysensor 16 that is less expensive than the infrared sensor 15. Due to asynergistic effect of these merits, this usage is advantageous in thataccuracy of the detected information and cost reduction can be bothsecured. It should be noted that the description of the first usage isomitted in exemplary controls.

In a second usage, the infrared sensor 15 detects radiation temperatureand human body position, while the temperature and humidity sensor 16detects intake air temperature. Furthermore, in this case, temperaturecorrection is carried out. To be more specific, the radiationtemperature detected by the infrared sensor 15, and the intake airtemperature detected by the temperature and humidity sensor 16 are eachassigned a predetermined weight and are summed to determine a valueindicative of a measurement temperature, thus reflecting both of theradiation temperature and intake air temperature in control. It shouldbe noted that this second usage is employed in a fourth exemplarycontrol described below.

It should also be noted that the three temperature and humidity sensors16 are provided for each outlet 4 in the present embodiment because anincrease in the number of the temperature and humidity sensors 16 to beprovided enables further fragmentation of the detection target range andthus improves detection accuracy. Therefore, the number of thetemperature and humidity sensors 16 to be provided may be appropriatelyincreased or decreased in accordance with the required detectionaccuracy. For example, an arrangement in which one temperature andhumidity sensor 16 is provided for each of the outlets 4, 4, . . . mayalso be allowed since the detected information for each of the areas (1)through (4) can be at least confirmed.

Besides, in the present embodiment, each temperature and humidity sensor16 is provided in the suction grill 8 (i.e., upstream of the filter 9).This is because such an arrangement avoids leveling off of intake airtemperatures caused by the passage of the intake airs through the filter9, and thus prevents the determination of the relationship between theinformation detected by each temperature and humidity sensor 16 and thedetection target area from becoming difficult. Therefore, if a draftresistance due to the filter 9 is small and the influence of levelingoff of intake air temperatures is slight, each temperature and humiditysensor 16 may be provided downstream of the filter 9, e.g., at an innersurface of the bell mouth 7.

Furthermore, the detection means 51 is formed using the temperature andhumidity sensor 16 in the present embodiment because if the temperatureand humidity of an intake air are detected and a heat load is calculatedbased on this detection, the heat load can be detected with a higherdegree of accuracy compared with the case where only the temperature ofan intake air is detected and a heat load is calculated based on thisdetection. Therefore, depending on the required detection accuracy, atemperature sensor may be provided instead of the temperature andhumidity sensor 16.

Although the description of the other constituting elements, forexample, will be omitted, the indoor unit Z of the second embodimentalso includes the controller 18 as shown in FIG. 4.

Accordingly, in the following, how the controller 18 carries out controlwill be described in detail together with an exemplary control targetedfor the indoor unit Z according to the first embodiment, andfurthermore, an exemplary control targeted for the indoor unit Zaccording to the second embodiment will be also described in detail.

III: Exemplary Control of Air Conditioning Apparatus by Controller 18

First, the description will be made about the basic concepts regardingthe control of the indoor unit Z and outdoor unit (not shown) by thecontroller 18.

(a) Area Setting in Space to be Air-Conditioned W

In each exemplary control described below, as shown in FIG. 21, thespace inside the room, i.e., the space to be air-conditioned W, isimaginarily divided into the four areas (1) through (4) each associatedwith the position of the corresponding one of the outlets 4, 4, . . . ofthe indoor unit Z. In addition, based on the measurement temperature ofeach of the areas (1) through (4), the level of a load in each of theareas (1) through (4) of the space to be air-conditioned W or the levelof a load in the overall space to be air-conditioned W, for example, isdetermined. It should be noted that the radiation temperature detectedby the infrared sensor 15 may simply be employed as a measurementtemperature, or the radiation temperature and the intake air temperaturedetected by the temperature and humidity sensor 16 may each be weightedto carry out temperature correction, thus determining a measurementtemperature. Besides, as indicated by in FIG. 21, the position of ahuman body (i.e., the presence of a high temperature region) in each ofthe areas (1) through (4) of the space to be air-conditioned W isdetected by the infrared sensor 15, and is reflected in each control.

It should be noted that the area setting is not limited to one in whichthe space to be air-conditioned W is divided into the four areas (1)through (4) as described above, but the space to be air-conditioned Wmay be divided into eight areas (1) through (8) by further dividing eachof the areas (1) through (4) as shown in FIG. 22, for example. Althoughan increase in the number of the areas enables more minute control, costincrease might be caused due to the increase in the number of sensors orthe increase in the complexity of the control system, for example;therefore, the number of the areas may be appropriately set depending oncriteria such as required control accuracy.

(b) Operational Air Conditioning Mode

In each exemplary control described below, an operational airconditioning mode is automatically switched between temperatureuniformization mode and spot air conditioning mode.

Specifically, the temperature uniformization mode refers to an airconditioning mode in which the temperatures of all areas of the space tobe air-conditioned W are uniformized as much as possible. Suppose that,as shown in FIG. 23, the areas (1) through (4) are equal in number ofpeople present (i.e., the areas (1) through (4) are similar in heat loadresulting from radiation heat from human body), and the area (1) andarea (2) are each exposed to a considerable radiation heat penetratingfrom outside since these areas each have a window that constitutes ahigh radiation region. In that case, a large quantity of conditioned airis discharged to the area (1) and area (2) at a wide angle in ahorizontal direction, while a small quantity of conditioned air isdischarged to the area (3) and area (4) at a narrow angle in ahorizontal direction, thus uniformizing the temperature of the overallspace to be air-conditioned W as much as possible.

To the contrary, the spot air conditioning mode refers to an airconditioning mode in which the surroundings of people present in thespace to be air-conditioned W are intensively air-conditioned. Supposethat, as shown in FIG. 24, among the areas (1) through (4), one personis present in the area (1) and two people are present in the area (2);however, no one is present in the area (3) and area (4). In that case, alarge quantity of conditioned air is discharged to the area (1) so thatthe conditioned air is discharged, at a narrow angle, toward thesurroundings of the person, a large quantity of conditioned air isdischarged at a wide angle to the area (2), and a small quantity ofconditioned air is discharged to the area (3) and area (4).

(c) Relationship between Set Temperature and Recommendable SetTemperature

The set temperature refers to a reference temperature in controlling thecapacity of the air conditioning apparatus; when cooling operation isperformed, the set temperature is normally set at about 24° C. inaccordance with the maximum load applied during the day time, and whenheating operation is performed, the set temperature is set at about 22°C. in accordance with the maximum load applied in the early morning.

Therefore, in performing actual cooling and heating operations, if theair conditioning apparatus is always operated at the set temperaturewhen the level of a load is lower than that of the maximum load employedas the criterion for the set temperature, then the air conditioningapparatus is operated to provide a capacity higher than necessary, whichis undesirable from the viewpoint of energy conservation.

Accordingly, in each exemplary control described below, a recommendableset temperature is provided in addition to the set temperature, and in alow-load state in which the load level is lower than the referencelevel, the recommendable set temperature is adopted as the referencetemperature for the capacity control instead of the set temperature. Tobe more specific, during cooling operation, the set temperature of 24°C. is automatically switched to the recommendable set temperature of 26°C. when the load level is low, and the set temperature of 24° C. ismaintained when the load level is high, as shown in FIGS. 25 and 27.

On the other hand, during heating operation, the set temperature of 22°C. is maintained when the load level is low, and the set temperature of22° C. is automatically switched to the recommendable set temperature of20° C. when the load level is high, as shown in FIGS. 26 and 27. Byperforming an air conditioning operation while appropriately allowingswitching between the set temperature and the recommendable settemperature in this manner, energy conservation can be improved.

(d) Exemplary Control

(d-1) First Exemplary Control (see FIGS. 11 and 12)

The first exemplary control is targeted for the indoor unit Z accordingto the first embodiment (i.e., the indoor unit formed to include, as thedetection means 51, only the infrared sensor 15), and the control overswitching of the operational air conditioning mode between thetemperature uniformization mode and the spot air conditioning mode isautomatically carried out based on the presence or absence of a humanbody (presence or absence of a high temperature region) in each of theareas 1 through 4 of the space to be air-conditioned W.

As illustrated in the flow charts in FIGS. 11 and 12, first, “automaticoperation” is selected as an operation mode after the start of thecontrol (step S1), and then the radiation temperatures of the areas (1)through (4) are sequentially detected using the infrared sensors 15, 15,. . . (step S2). Based on the detected values for the areas (1) through(4), the temperature distribution in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is calculated, and the position of a human body ineach of the areas (1) through (4) (i.e., a high temperature region ineach area) is determined (step S3). Furthermore, at this time, amanipulation signal for cooling operation or heating operation isinputted, thus allowing the air conditioning apparatus to performcooling operation or heating operation (step S4).

Subsequently, it is determined in step S5 whether or not the presence ofa human body is detected in each of the areas (1) through (4), and thedetermination result is employed as the criterion for switching theoperational air conditioning mode.

It should be noted that although whether or not a person is present ineach of the areas (1) through (4) is employed as the criterion forswitching the operational air conditioning mode in this exemplarycontrol, the percentage of the area with the presence of a person to allthe areas (1) through (4) may naturally be employed as the criterion forswitching the operational air conditioning mode in the other exemplarycontrol. The criterion for the switching in this exemplary control ismerely an example (in this example, the percentage of the area with thepresence of a person to all the areas is 100%).

If it is now determined in step S5 that a person is present in each ofthe areas (1) through (4), the operational air conditioning mode is setto the temperature uniformization mode (step S6). On the other hand, ifany one of the areas (1) through (4) is without the presence of aperson, the operational air conditioning mode is set to the spot airconditioning mode (step S14).

In the former case, even if the number of people may vary, at least aperson is present in each of the areas (1) through (4); therefore, inorder to ensure the comfort of air conditioning in each of the areas (1)through (4), it is preferable that the temperatures of the areas (1)through (4) are each set at a uniformized temperature as much aspossible.

To the contrary, in the latter case, at least one of the areas (1)through (4) is without the presence of a person. Therefore, if the areawithout the presence of a person is air-conditioned as with the otherareas (i.e., the areas with the presence of people), the airconditioning operation becomes uneconomical by the air conditioning ofthe area without the presence of a person; thus, it is conceivable thatspot air conditioning of only the areas with the presence of people ismore advantageous from the viewpoint of energy conservation. In otherwords, it is conceivable that this is an optimum method for achievingboth of the comfort of air conditioning and energy conservation.

If the answer is YES in step S5, the process of the control goes to theexecution of the temperature uniformization mode (step S6), and theoperational mode of the air flow changing means 52 is first determinedin order to uniformize the room temperature.

Specifically, in step S7, the ratio of air quantities from the outlets4, 4, . . . of the indoor unit Z (i.e., the ratio of opening areas inthe outlets 4, 4, . . . adjusted by the air quantity distributionmechanisms 10, 10, . . . ) is calculated, and the operational modes ofthe first flaps 12, 12, . . . and the second flaps 13, 13, . . . areeach set at “swing”. In this step, the operational modes of all thefirst flaps 12 and second flaps 13 are each set at “swing” because it isnecessary to discharge conditioned air evenly to a wider range of theroom from the outlets 4, 4, . . . .

Based on each setting made in step S7, the ratio of air quantities,lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind direction are adjusted(step S8).

Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of the indoor unitZ in the temperature uniformization mode. To require the indoor unit Zto provide a capacity more than necessary is undesirable from thestandpoint of ensuring energy conservation. Therefore, if the indoorunit Z provides an excessive capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlledso that its capacity is reduced, and if the indoor unit Z provides aninsufficient capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is increased. Specifically, the indoor unit Z is controlled asfollows.

First, the level of a load applied to the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined in step S9. To be more specific, whencooling operation is currently performed, it is determined whether theaverage temperature Tm of all the areas (1) through (4) inside the roomis lower than, equal to or higher than 26° C., and when heatingoperation is currently performed, it is determined whether the averagetemperature Tm of all the areas (1) through (4) inside the room is lowerthan, equal to or higher than 23° C. It should be noted that the averagetemperature is determined by the average of the radiation temperaturesof the areas (1) through (4) detected by the infrared sensor 15.

In this step, if it is determined that the load level is high (i.e., ifthe average temperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during coolingoperation, or if the average temperature Tm is lower than 23° C. duringheating operation), the process goes to automatic capacity control thatis carried out based on a set temperature Ts (step S10). To thecontrary, if it is determined that the load level is low (i.e., if theaverage temperature Tm is equal to or lower than 26° C. during coolingoperation, or if the average temperature Tm is equal to or higher than23° C. during heating operation), the process goes to automatic capacitycontrol that is carried out based on a recommendable set temperature Tss(step S11).

First, in carrying out the automatic capacity control based on the settemperature Ts, a comparison is made between the current averagetemperature Tm and the set temperature Ts in step S10. In this step,when the average temperature Tm is equal to or lower than the settemperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the average temperatureTm is equal to or higher than the set temperature Ts during heatingoperation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity is excessive.In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity isreduced, for example, by reducing the number of rotations of acompressor and reducing the number of rotations of the fan 6 of theindoor unit Z (step S13).

To the contrary, when the average temperature Tm is higher than the settemperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the average temperatureTm is lower than the set temperature Ts during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased, forexample, by increasing the number of rotations of a compressor andincreasing the number of rotations of the fan 6 (step S12).

On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity control basedon the recommendable set temperature Tss, first, a comparison is madebetween the current average temperature Tm and the recommendable settemperature Tss in step S11. In this step, when the average temperatureTm is equal to or lower than the recommendable set temperature Tssduring cooling operation, or when the average temperature Tm is equal toor higher than the recommendable set temperature Tss during heatingoperation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity is excessive.In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity isreduced (step S13). To the contrary, when the average temperature Tm ishigher than the recommendable set temperature Tss during coolingoperation, or when the average temperature Tm is lower than therecommendable set temperature Tss during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased (stepS12).

The above-described operation and automatic capacity control in thetemperature uniformization mode are repeatedly carried out as long asthe requirements for the execution of the temperature uniformizationmode are met.

On the other hand, if the answer is NO in step S5 (i.e., if it isdetermined that there exist, among all the areas (1) through (4), atleast one or more of the areas without the presence of people), theprocess goes to the execution of the spot air conditioning mode (stepS14).

After the operational air conditioning mode has been switched to thespot air conditioning mode, first, the number of people present in eachof the areas (1) through (4) is calculated in step S15. Then, in orderto realize the optimum spot air conditioning for each of the areas (1)through (4) in accordance with the number of people present in each ofthe areas (1) through (4), the required operational modes of the airflow changing means 52 provided in the outlets 4, 4, . . . , eachassociated with the corresponding one of the areas (1) through (4), aredetermined.

For the area with the presence of only one person, the ratio of airquantities is set at “large”, and the lateral wind direction andlongitudinal wind direction (i.e., the operational modes of the firstflaps 12 and the second flaps 13) are determined so as to direct thedischarge of conditioned air toward the position of a human body (step16).

In addition, for the area without the presence of a person, since thisarea does not need air conditioning itself, the ratio of air quantitiesis fixed at “small” and the lateral wind direction and longitudinal winddirection are both fixed (step S17).

Furthermore, the area with the presence of a plurality of people mostneeds air conditioning and requires uniform air conditioning of theentire area. Therefore, for this area, the ratio of air quantities isset at “large”; in addition, to determine each discharge direction ofconditioned air, the operational modes of the flaps for changing thelateral wind direction are each set at “swing”, and the operationalmodes of the flaps for changing the longitudinal wind direction are eachdetermined in accordance with the position of a human body (step S18).

Based on the settings made in steps S16 through S15, the ratio of airquantities, lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind direction areadjusted (step S19).

Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of the indoor unitZ in the spot air conditioning mode. Also in the spot air conditioningmode, to require the indoor unit Z to provide a capacity more thannecessary is undesirable from the standpoint of ensuring energyconservation, as in the above-described temperature uniformization mode.Therefore, if the indoor unit Z provides an excessive capacity, theindoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is reduced, and if theindoor unit Z provides an insufficient capacity, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is increased. Specifically, the indoorunit Z is controlled as follows.

First, in step S20, the infrared sensor 15 carries out detection foreach of the areas (1) through (4) of the space to be air-conditioned Wagain, and the temperature distribution and position of a human body inthe overall space to be air-conditioned W are determined based on piecesof the detected information (step 21).

Next, in step S22, the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined. If cooling operation is currentlyperformed, it is determined whether the average temperature Tm of allthe areas (1) through (4) inside the room is lower than, equal to orhigher than 26° C., and if heating operation is currently performed, itis determined whether the average temperature Tm of all the areas (1)through (4) is lower than, equal to or higher than 23° C.

If it is determined that the load level is high (i.e., if the averagetemperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during cooling operation, or if theaverage temperature Tm is lower than 23° C. during heating operation),the process goes to automatic capacity control that is carried out basedon a set temperature Ts (step S23). To the contrary, if it is determinedthat the load level is low (i.e., if the average temperature Tm is equalto or lower than 26° C. during cooling operation, or if the averagetemperature Tm is equal to or higher than 23° C. during heatingoperation), the process goes to automatic capacity control that iscarried out based on a recommendable set temperature Tss (step S24).

First, in carrying out the automatic capacity control based on the settemperature Ts, a comparison is made between the current human bodyambient temperature Tp and the set temperature Ts in step S23. In thisstep, when the human body ambient temperature Tp is equal to or lowerthan the set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the humanbody ambient temperature Tp is equal to or higher than the settemperature Ts during heating operation, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is excessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced (step S13).

To the contrary, when the human body ambient temperature Tp is higherthan the set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the humanbody ambient temperature Tp is lower than the set temperature Ts duringheating operation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity isinsufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is increased (step S12).

Furthermore, when a difference between the average temperature Tm andthe set temperature Ts is greater than a predetermined temperature α° C.during cooling operation, or when a difference between the settemperature Ts and the average temperature Tm is greater than apredetermined temperature α° C. during heating operation, it is deemedthat the capacity control is unnecessary, and the process of the controlis returned (step S23→step S6).

On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity control basedon the recommendable set temperature Tss, a comparison is made betweenthe current human body ambient temperature Tp and the recommendable settemperature Tss in step S24. In this step, when the human body ambienttemperature Tp is equal to or lower than the recommendable settemperature Tss during cooling operation, or when the human body ambienttemperature Tp is equal to or higher than the recommendable settemperature Tss during heating operation, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is excessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced (step S13).

To the contrary, when the human body ambient temperature Tp is higherthan the recommendable set temperature Tss during cooling operation, orwhen the human body ambient temperature Tp is lower than therecommendable set temperature Tss during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased (stepS12).

Furthermore, when a difference between the average temperature Tm andthe set temperature Ts is greater than a predetermined temperature β° C.during cooling operation, or when a difference between the settemperature Ts and the average temperature Tm is greater than apredetermined temperature β° C. during heating operation, it is deemedthat the capacity control is unnecessary, and the process of the controlis returned (step S24→step S6).

The above-described operation and automatic capacity control in the spotair conditioning mode are repeatedly carried out as long as therequirements for the execution of the spot air conditioning mode aremet.

(d-2) Second Exemplary Control (see FIGS. 13 and 14)

The second exemplary control is targeted for the indoor unit Z accordingto the first embodiment (i.e., the indoor unit formed to include, as thedetection means 51, only the infrared sensor 15). In the secondexemplary control, the control over switching of the operational airconditioning mode between the temperature uniformization mode and thespot air conditioning mode is automatically carried out based on whetherthe load level in the overall space to be air-conditioned W is high orlow.

As illustrated in the flow charts in FIGS. 13 and 14, first, “automaticoperation” is selected as an operation mode after the start of thecontrol (step S1), and then the radiation temperatures of the areas (1)through (4) are sequentially detected using the infrared sensors 15, 15,. . . (step S2). Based on the detected values for the areas (1) through(4), the temperature distribution in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is calculated, and the position of a human body ineach of the areas (1) through (4) (i.e., a high temperature region ineach area) is determined (step S3). Furthermore, at this time, amanipulation signal for cooling operation or heating operation isinputted, thus allowing the air conditioning apparatus to performcooling operation or heating operation (step S4).

Subsequently, in step S5, the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined, and the determination result isemployed as the criterion for switching the operational air conditioningmode. It should be noted that the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined by making a comparison between theaverage temperature Tm of the overall space to be air-conditioned W andreference temperature. Furthermore, the average temperature Tm isdetermined by the average of the radiation temperatures of the areas (1)through (4) detected by the infrared sensor 15.

In step S5, when cooling operation is performed, it is determinedwhether the average temperature Tm is lower than, equal to or higherthan 26° C., and when heating operation is performed, it is determinedwhether the average temperature Tm is lower than, equal to or higherthan 23° C. To be more specific, when it is determined that the averagetemperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during cooling operation, or whenit is determined that the average temperature Tm is higher than 23° C.during heating operation, the process of the control goes to theexecution of the temperature uniformization mode (step S6). To thecontrary, when it is determined that the average temperature Tm is equalto or lower than 26° C. during cooling operation, or when it isdetermined that the average temperature Tm is equal to or lower than 23°C. during heating operation, the process goes to the execution of thespot air conditioning mode (step S14).

In the former case, the average temperature Tm in the space to beair-conditioned W is high, i.e., a lot of people are present in thespace to be air-conditioned W, and therefore, there is a great need forthe uniformization of the temperature of the overall space to beair-conditioned W. To the contrary, in the latter case, the averagetemperature Tm in the space to be air-conditioned W is low, i.e., only afew people are present in the space to be air-conditioned W, andtherefore, it is more economical to provide spot air conditioning to thesurroundings of people than to provide air conditioning to the overallspace to be air-conditioned W.

After the operational air conditioning mode has been switched to thetemperature uniformization mode (step S6), first, the operational modeof each air flow changing means 52 is determined in order to uniformizethe room temperature.

In step S7, the ratio of air quantities from the outlets 4, 4, . . . ofthe indoor unit Z (i.e., the ratio of opening areas in the outlets 4, 4,. . . adjusted by the air quantity distribution mechanisms 10, 10, . . .) is calculated. Furthermore, the operational modes of the first flaps12, 12, . . . and the second flaps 13, 13, . . . are each set at“swing”. In this step, the operational modes of all the first flaps 12and second flaps 13 are each set at “swing” because it is necessary todischarge conditioned air evenly to a wider range of the room from theoutlets 4, 4, . . . .

Based on each setting made in step S7, the ratio of air quantities,lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind direction are adjusted(step S8).

Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of the indoor unitZ in the temperature uniformization mode. To require the indoor unit Zto provide a capacity more than necessary is undesirable from thestandpoint of ensuring energy conservation. Therefore, if the indoorunit Z provides an excessive capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlledso that its capacity is reduced, and if the indoor unit Z provides aninsufficient capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is increased. Specifically, the indoor unit Z is controlled asfollows.

First, it is determined in step S9 whether the operation mode of themain unit of the air conditioning apparatus is a cooling mode or aheating mode. If the operation mode is the cooling mode, the processgoes to automatic capacity control that is carried out based on a settemperature (step 10), and if the operation mode is the heating mode,the process goes to automatic capacity control that is carried out basedon a recommendable set temperature (step S11). In step S9, the selectionof the mode of the automatic capacity control is carried out based onthe operation mode of the main unit because of the following reasons.The average temperature Tm of the space to be air-conditioned W is highin the temperature uniformization mode; therefore, air conditioning ispreferably performed at the set temperature during cooling operationsince the load level is high. To the contrary, air conditioning ispreferably performed at the recommendable set temperature during heatingoperation since the load level is low.

In carrying out the automatic capacity control based on the settemperature, first, a comparison is made between the average temperatureTm and the set temperature Ts in step S10. In this step, when theaverage temperature Tm is equal to or lower than the set temperature Ts,it is determined that air conditioning capacity is excessive. In thiscase, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is reduced,for example, by reducing the number of rotations of a compressor andreducing the number of rotations of the fan 6 of the indoor unit Z (stepS13).

To the contrary, when the average temperature Tm is higher than the settemperature Ts, it is determined that air conditioning capacity isinsufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is increased, for example, by increasing the number ofrotations of a compressor and increasing the number of rotations of thefan 6 (step S12).

On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity control basedon the recommendable set temperature Tss, first, a comparison is madebetween the current average temperature Tm and the recommendable settemperature Tss in step S11. When the average temperature Tm is equal toor higher than the recommendable set temperature Tss, it is determinedthat air conditioning capacity is excessive. In this case, the indoorunit Z is controlled so that its capacity is reduced (step S13). To thecontrary, when the average temperature Tm is lower than therecommendable set temperature Tss, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Zis controlled so that its capacity is increased (step S12).

The above-described operation and automatic capacity control in thetemperature uniformization mode are repeatedly carried out as long asthe requirements for the execution of the temperature uniformizationmode are met.

On the other hand, if the spot air conditioning mode has been selectedin step S5, the process goes to the execution of the spot airconditioning mode (step S14).

After the operational air conditioning mode has been switched to thespot air conditioning mode, first, the number of people present in eachof the areas (1) through (4) is calculated in step S15. In order torealize the optimum spot air conditioning for each of the areas (1)through (4) in accordance with the number of people present in each ofthe areas (1) through (4), the required operational modes of the airflow changing means 52 provided in the outlets 4, 4, . . . , eachassociated with the corresponding one of the areas (1) through (4), aredetermined.

For the area with the presence of only one person, the ratio of airquantities is set at “large”, and the lateral wind direction andlongitudinal wind direction (i.e., the operational modes of the firstflaps 12 and the second flaps 13) are determined so as to direct thedischarge of conditioned air toward the position of a human body (step16).

In addition, for the area without the presence of a person, since thisarea does not need air conditioning itself, the ratio of air quantitiesis fixed at “small” and the lateral wind direction and longitudinal winddirection are both fixed (step S17).

Furthermore, the area with the presence of a plurality of people mostneeds air conditioning and requires uniform air conditioning of theentire area. Therefore, for this area, the ratio of air quantities isset at “large”. Besides, to determine each discharge direction ofconditioned air, the operational modes of the flaps for changing thelateral wind direction are each set at “swing”, and the operationalmodes of the flaps for changing the longitudinal wind direction are eachdetermined in accordance with the position of a human body (step S18).

Based on the settings made in steps S16 through S18, the ratio of airquantities, lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind direction areadjusted (step S19).

Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of the indoor unitZ in the spot air conditioning mode. Also in the spot air conditioningmode, to require the indoor unit Z to provide a capacity more thannecessary is undesirable from the standpoint of ensuring energyconservation, as in the above-described temperature uniformization mode.Therefore, if the indoor unit Z provides an excessive capacity, theindoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is reduced, and if theindoor unit Z provides an insufficient capacity, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is increased. Furthermore, if the statesof the excessive capacity and insufficient capacity are within apredetermined range and are too negligible to carry out control, theprocess of the control is returned without carrying out any capacitycontrol. Specifically, the following steps are performed.

First, in step S20, the infrared sensor 15 carries out detection foreach of the areas (1) through (4) of the space to be air-conditioned Wagain, and the temperature distribution and human body position in theoverall space to be air-conditioned W are determined based on pieces ofthe detected information (step 21).

Next, in step S22, the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined. To be more specific, if coolingoperation is currently performed, it is determined whether the averagetemperature Tm of all the areas (1) through (4) inside the room is lowerthan, equal to or higher than 26° C. On the other hand, if heatingoperation is currently performed, it is determined whether the averagetemperature Tm is in the range of 18° C. to 23° C. or lower than 18° C.

If it is determined that the load level is high (i.e., if the averagetemperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during cooling operation, or if theaverage temperature Tm is lower than 18° C. during heating operation),the process goes to automatic capacity control that is carried out basedon a set temperature Ts (step S23). To the contrary, if it is determinedthat the load level is low (i.e., if the average temperature Tm is equalto or lower than 26° C. during cooling operation, or if the averagetemperature Tm is in the rage of 18° C. to 23° C. during heatingoperation), the process goes to automatic capacity control that iscarried out based on a recommendable set temperature Tss (step S24).

First, in carrying out the automatic capacity control based on the settemperature Ts, a comparison is made between the current human bodyambient temperature Tp and the set temperature Ts in step S23. In thisstep, when the human body ambient temperature Tp is equal to or lowerthan the set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the humanbody ambient temperature Tp is equal to or higher than the settemperature Ts during heating operation, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is excessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced (step S13).

To the contrary, when the human body ambient temperature Tp is higherthan the set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the humanbody ambient temperature Tp is lower than the set temperature Ts duringheating operation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity isinsufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is increased (step S12).

Furthermore, when a difference between the average temperature Tm andthe set temperature Ts is greater than a predetermined temperature α° C.during cooling operation, or when a difference between the settemperature Ts and the average temperature Tm is greater than apredetermined temperature α° C. during heating operation, it is deemedthat the capacity control is unnecessary, and the process of the controlis returned (step S23→step S6).

On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity control basedon the recommendable set temperature Tss, a comparison is made betweenthe current human body ambient temperature Tp and the recommendable settemperature Tss in step S24. In this step, when the human body ambienttemperature Tp is equal to or lower than the recommendable settemperature Tss during cooling operation, or when the human body ambienttemperature Tp is equal or higher than the recommendable set temperatureTss during heating operation, it is determined that air conditioningcapacity is excessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled sothat its capacity is reduced (step S13).

To the contrary, when the human body ambient temperature Tp is higherthan the recommendable set temperature Ts during cooling operation, orwhen the human body ambient temperature Tp is lower than therecommendable set temperature Ts during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased (stepS12).

Furthermore, when a difference between the average temperature Tm andthe set temperature Ts is greater than a predetermined temperature β° C.during cooling operation, or when a difference between the settemperature Ts and the average temperature Tm is greater than apredetermined temperature β° C. during heating operation, it is deemedthat the capacity control is unnecessary, and the process of the controlis returned (step S24→step S6).

The above-described operation and automatic capacity control in the spotair conditioning mode are repeatedly carried out as long as therequirements for the execution of the spot air conditioning mode aremet.

(d-3) Third Exemplary Control (see FIGS. 15 and 16)

The third exemplary control is targeted for the indoor unit Z accordingto the first embodiment (i.e., the indoor unit formed to include, as thedetection means 51, only the infrared sensor 15). In the third exemplarycontrol, basically, the control over switching of the operational airconditioning mode between the temperature uniformization mode and thespot air conditioning mode is automatically carried out based on thepresence or absence of a human body (i.e., the presence or absence of ahigh temperature region) in each of the areas 1 through 4 of the spaceto be air-conditioned W as in the first exemplary control. Furthermore,in the third exemplary control, the control over the switching of thestabilized operational air conditioning mode is realized by causing adelay in the control over the switching of the operational airconditioning mode.

As illustrated in the flow charts in FIGS. 15 and 16, first, “automaticoperation” is selected as an operation mode after the start of thecontrol (step S1), and then the radiation temperatures of the areas (1)through (4) are sequentially detected using the infrared sensors 15, 15,. . . (step S2). Based on the detected values for the areas (1) through(4), the temperature distribution in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is calculated, and the position of a human body ineach of the areas (1) through (4) (i.e., a high temperature region ineach area) is determined (step S3). Furthermore, at this time, amanipulation signal for cooling operation or heating operation isinputted, thus allowing the air conditioning apparatus to performcooling operation or heating operation (step S4).

Subsequently, it is determined in step S5 whether or not a predeterminedperiod of time has elapsed after the start of the operation or after theprevious switching of the operational air conditioning mode. If theanswer is YES in this step, the operational air conditioning mode isimmediately set at the temperature uniformization mode (step S7) withoutdetermining the selection of the operational air conditioning mode, andair conditioning is continuously performed in the temperatureuniformization mode until the predetermined period of time has elapsed.To the contrary, if the answer is NO, the process goes to the selectionof the operational air conditioning mode in step S6.

In this manner, the operational air conditioning mode is fixed at thetemperature uniformization mode until a predetermined period of time haselapsed after the start of the operation or the previous switching ofthe operational air conditioning mode. Accordingly, the control overswitching of the initial or next operational air conditioning mode iscarried out after the stabilization of the operation of the airconditioning apparatus itself, or after the stabilization of theoperational change of each air flow changing means 52 performed inswitching the operational air conditioning mode. Consequently, thereliability of the control is ensured, and thus the comfort of airconditioning or energy conservation is improved with much morecertainty.

Next, in step S6, it is determined whether or not the presence of ahuman body is detected in each of the areas (1) through (4), and thedetermination result is employed as the criterion for switching theoperational air conditioning mode.

It should be noted that in this exemplary control, whether or not aperson is present in each of the areas (1) through (4) is employed asthe criterion for switching the operational air conditioning mode. Inthe other exemplary control, however, the percentage of the area withthe presence of a person to all the areas (1) through (4) may naturallybe employed as the criterion for switching the operational airconditioning mode. The criterion for the switching in this exemplarycontrol is merely an example (in this example, the percentage of thearea with the presence of a person to all the areas is 100%).

If it is determined in step S6 that a person is currently present ineach of the areas (1) through (4), the operational air conditioning modeis set to the temperature uniformization mode (step S7). On the otherhand, if it is determined that any one of the areas (1) through (4) iswithout the presence of a person, the operational air conditioning modeis set to the spot air conditioning mode (step S115).

In the former case, even if the number of people may vary, at least aperson is present in each of the areas (1) through (4). Therefore, inorder to ensure the comfort of air conditioning in each of the areas (1)through (4), it is preferable that the temperatures of the areas (1)through (4) are each set at a uniformized temperature as much aspossible. To the contrary, in the latter case, at least one of the areas(1) through (4) is without the presence of a person. Therefore, if thearea without the presence of a person is air-conditioned as with theother areas (i.e., the areas with the presence of people), the airconditioning operation becomes uneconomical by the air conditioning ofthe area without the presence of a person. Thus, it is conceivable thatspot air conditioning of only the areas with the presence of people ismore advantageous from the viewpoint of energy conservation. In otherwords, it is conceivable that this is an optimum method for achievingboth of the comfort of air conditioning and energy conservation.

If the answer is YES in step S6, the process of the control goes to theexecution of the temperature uniformization mode (step S7), and theoperational mode of the air flow changing means 52 is first determinedin order to uniformize the room temperature.

In step S8, the ratio of air quantities from the outlets 4, 4, . . . ofthe indoor unit Z (i.e., the ratio of opening areas in the outlets 4, 4,. . . adjusted by the air quantity distribution mechanisms 10, 10, . . .) is calculated, and the operational modes of the first flaps 12, 12, .. . and the second flaps 13, 13, . . . are each set at “swing”. In thisstep, the operational modes of all the first flaps 12 and second flaps13 are each set at “swing” because it is necessary to dischargeconditioned air evenly to a wider range of the room from the outlets 4,4, . . . .

Based on each setting made in step S7, the ratio of air quantities,lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind direction are adjusted(step S9).

Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of the indoor unitZ in the temperature uniformization mode. To require the indoor unit Zto provide a capacity more than necessary is undesirable from thestandpoint of ensuring energy conservation. Therefore, if the indoorunit Z provides an excessive capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlledso that its capacity is reduced, and if the indoor unit Z provides aninsufficient capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is increased. Specifically, the indoor unit Z is controlled asfollows.

First, the load level in the overall space to be air-conditioned W isdetermined in step S10. To be more specific, when cooling operation iscurrently performed, it is determined whether the average temperature Tmof all the areas (1) through (4) inside the room is lower than, equal toor higher than 26° C., and when heating operation is currentlyperformed, it is determined whether the average temperature Tm of allthe areas (1) through (4) is lower than, equal to or higher than 23° C.It should be noted that the average temperature is determined by theaverage of the radiation temperatures of the areas (1) through (4)detected by the infrared sensor 15.

In this step, if it is determined that the load level is high (i.e., ifthe average temperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during coolingoperation, or if the average temperature Tm is lower than 23° C. duringheating operation), the process goes to automatic capacity control thatis carried out based on a set temperature Ts (step S11). To thecontrary, if it is determined that the load level is low (i.e., if theaverage temperature Tm is equal to or lower than 26° C. during coolingoperation, or if the average temperature Tm is equal to or higher than23° C. during heating operation), the process goes to automatic capacitycontrol that is carried out based on a recommendable set temperature Tss(step S12).

First, in carrying out the automatic capacity control based on the settemperature Ts, a comparison is made between the current averagetemperature Tm and the set temperature Ts in step S11. In this step,when the average temperature Tm is equal to or lower than the settemperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the average temperatureTm is equal to or higher than the set temperature Ts during heatingoperation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity is excessive.In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity isreduced, for example, by reducing the number of rotations of acompressor and reducing the number of rotations of the fan 6 of theindoor unit Z (step S14).

To the contrary, when the average temperature Tm is higher than the settemperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the average temperatureTm is lower than the set temperature Ts during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased, forexample, by increasing the number of rotations of a compressor andincreasing the number of rotations of the fan 6 (step S13).

On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity control basedon the recommendable set temperature Tss, first, a comparison is madebetween the current average temperature Tm and the recommendable settemperature Tss in step S12. In this step, when the average temperatureTm is equal to or lower than the recommendable set temperature Tssduring cooling operation, or when the average temperature Tm is equal toor higher than the recommendable set temperature Tss during heatingoperation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity is excessive.In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity isreduced (step S14). To the contrary, when the average temperature Tm ishigher than the recommendable set temperature Tss during coolingoperation, or when the average temperature Tm is lower than therecommendable set temperature Tss during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased (stepS13).

The above-described operation and automatic capacity control in thetemperature uniformization mode are repeatedly carried out as long asthe requirements for the execution of the temperature uniformizationmode are met.

On the other hand, if the answer is NO in step S6 (i.e., if it isdetermined that there exist, among all the areas (1) through (4), atleast one or more of the areas without the presence of people), theprocess goes to the execution of the spot air conditioning mode (stepS15).

After the operational air conditioning mode has been switched to thespot air conditioning mode, first, the number of people present in eachof the areas (1) through (4) is calculated in step S16. Then, in orderto realize the optimum spot air conditioning for each of the areas (1)through (4) in accordance with the number of people present in each ofthe areas (1) through (4), the required operational modes of the airflow changing means 52 provided in the outlets 4, 4, . . . , eachassociated with the corresponding one of the areas (1) through (4), aredetermined.

For the area with the presence of only one person, the ratio of airquantities is set at “large”, and the lateral wind direction andlongitudinal wind direction (i.e., the operational modes of the firstflaps 12 and the second flaps 13) are determined so as to direct thedischarge of conditioned air toward the position of a human body (step17).

In addition, for the area without the presence of a person, since thisarea does not need air conditioning itself, the ratio of air quantitiesis fixed at “small” and the lateral wind direction and longitudinal winddirection are both fixed (step S18).

Furthermore, the area with the presence of a plurality of people mostneeds air conditioning and requires uniform air conditioning of theentire area. Therefore, for this area, the ratio of air quantities isset at “large”. In addition, to determine each discharge direction ofconditioned air, the operational modes of the flaps for changing thelateral wind direction are each set at “swing”, and the operationalmodes of the flaps for changing the longitudinal wind direction are eachdetermined in accordance with the position of a human body (step S19).

Based on the settings made in steps S17 through S19, the ratio of airquantities, lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind direction areadjusted (step S20).

Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of the indoor unitZ in the spot air conditioning mode. Also in the spot air conditioningmode, to require the indoor unit Z to provide a capacity more thannecessary is undesirable from the standpoint of ensuring energyconservation, as in the above-described temperature uniformization mode.Therefore, if the indoor unit Z provides an excessive capacity, theindoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is reduced, and if theindoor unit Z provides an insufficient capacity, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is increased. Specifically, the indoorunit Z is controlled as follows.

First, in step S21, the infrared sensor 15 carries out detection foreach of the areas (1) through (4) of the space to be air-conditioned Wagain, and the temperature distribution and human body position in theoverall space to be air-conditioned W are determined based on pieces ofthe detected information (step 22).

Next, in step S23, the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined. Specifically, if cooling operation iscurrently performed, it is determined whether the average temperature Tmof all the areas (1) through (4) inside the room is lower than, equal toor higher than 26° C., and if heating operation is currently performed,it is determined whether the average temperature Tm of all the areas (1)through (4) is lower than, equal to or higher than 23° C.

If it is determined that the load level is high (i.e., if the averagetemperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during cooling operation, or if theaverage temperature Tm is lower than 23° C. during heating operation),the process goes to automatic capacity control that is carried out basedon a set temperature Ts (step S24). To the contrary, if it is determinedthat the load level is low (i.e., if the average temperature Tm is equalto or lower than 26° C. during cooling operation, or if the averagetemperature Tm is equal to or higher than 23° C. during heatingoperation), the process goes to automatic capacity control that iscarried out based on a recommendable set temperature Tss (step S25).

First, in carrying out the automatic capacity control based on the settemperature Ts, a comparison is made between the current human bodyambient temperature Tp and the set temperature Ts in step S24. In thisstep, when the human body ambient temperature Tp is equal to or lowerthan the set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the humanbody ambient temperature Tp is equal to or higher than the settemperature Ts during heating operation, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is excessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced (step S14).

To the contrary, when the human body ambient temperature Tp is higherthan the set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the humanbody ambient temperature Tp is lower than the set temperature Ts duringheating operation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity isinsufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is increased (step S13).

Furthermore, when a difference between the average temperature Tm andthe set temperature Ts is greater than a predetermined temperature α° C.during cooling operation, or when a difference between the settemperature Ts and the average temperature Tm is greater than apredetermined temperature α° C. during heating operation, it is deemedthat the capacity control is unnecessary, and the process of the controlis returned (step S24→step S7).

On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity control basedon the recommendable set temperature Tss, a comparison is made betweenthe current human body ambient temperature Tp and the recommendable settemperature Tss in step S25. In this step, when the human body ambienttemperature Tp is equal to or lower than the recommendable settemperature Tss during cooling operation, or when the human body ambienttemperature Tp is equal to or higher than the recommendable settemperature Tss during heating operation, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is excessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced (step S14).

To the contrary, when the human body ambient temperature Tp is higherthan the recommendable set temperature Tss during cooling operation, orwhen the human body ambient temperature Tp is lower than therecommendable set temperature Tss during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased (stepS13).

Furthermore, when a difference between the average temperature Tm andthe set temperature Ts is greater than a predetermined temperature β° C.during cooling operation, or when a difference between the settemperature Ts and the average temperature Tm is greater than apredetermined temperature β° C. during heating operation, it is deemedthat the capacity control is unnecessary, and the process of the controlis returned (step S25→step S7).

The above-described operation and automatic capacity control in the spotair conditioning mode are repeatedly carried out as long as therequirements for the execution of the spot air conditioning mode aremet.

(d-4) Fourth Exemplary Control (see FIGS. 17 and 18)

The fourth exemplary control is targeted for the indoor unit Z accordingto the first embodiment (i.e., the indoor unit formed to include, as thedetection means 51, only the infrared sensor 15). In the fourthexemplary control, the control over switching of the operational airconditioning mode between the temperature uniformization mode and thespot air conditioning mode is automatically carried out by using aschedule timer in which provision is made for each time period of a day.

An example of the schedule timer is illustrated in FIG. 28. In thisexample, 24 hours of a day are divided into four hour time periods, andthe operational air conditioning mode is set for each time period inaccordance with a living environment or a business environment in thetime period. The illustrated schedule timer is intended for airconditioning of a restaurant, for example; therefore, the temperatureuniformization mode is selected as the operational air conditioning modefor the time period from 12 o'clock to 16 o'clock which corresponds tomealtime, because the comings and goings of guests are frequent and aheat load from a kitchen is increased. Furthermore, since it isconceivable that the load might be increased to a certain extent duringtime periods prior to and subsequent to the mealtime, the temperatureuniformization mode or the spot air conditioning mode is selected as theoperational air conditioning mode for each of these time periods. It isalso conceivable that during the other time periods, there are nocomings and goings of guests or only a few guests, if any, come and go,and the load from the kitchen is small; therefore, the spot airconditioning mode is selected as the operational air conditioning modefor each of the other time periods. In other words, the schedule timerallows the switching of the operational air conditioning mode to becarried out automatically with time (elapse of time) by associatingvariations in the level of a load applied to the premises, i.e., spaceto be air-conditioned W, with the time periods of a day. Accordingly,the control after the selection of the operational air conditioning modeis carried out as in the first exemplary control.

As illustrated in the flow charts in FIGS. 17 and 18, first, “automaticoperation” is selected as an operation mode after the start of thecontrol (step S1), and then the radiation temperatures of the areas (1)through (4) are sequentially detected using the infrared sensors 15, 15,. . . (step S2). Then, based on the detected values for the areas (1)through (4), the temperature distribution in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is calculated, and the position of a human body ineach of the areas (1) through (4) (i.e., a high temperature region ineach area) is determined (step S3). Furthermore, at this time, amanipulation signal for cooling operation or heating operation isinputted, thus allowing the air conditioning apparatus to performcooling operation or heating operation (step S4).

Subsequently, it is determined in step S5 whether or not the spot airconditioning mode is set in the schedule timer for the time periodcorresponding to the present time. In this step, if it is determinedthat the present time period corresponds to the time period for whichthe temperature uniformization mode is set, the process of the controlgoes to the execution of the temperature uniformization mode (step S6).On the other hand, if it is determined that the present time periodcorresponds to the time period for which the spot air conditioning modeis set, the process goes to the execution of the spot air conditioningmode (step S14).

When the operational air conditioning mode has been switched to thetemperature uniformization mode, the operational mode of the air flowchanging means 52 is first determined in order to uniformize the roomtemperature. To be more specific, in step S7, the ratio of airquantities from the outlets 4, 4, . . . of the indoor unit Z (i.e., theratio of opening areas in the outlets 4, 4, . . . adjusted by the airquantity distribution mechanisms 10, 10, . . . ) is calculated, and theoperational modes of the first flaps 12, 12, . . . and the second flaps13, 13, . . . are each set at “swing”. In this step, the operationalmodes of all the first flaps 12 and second flaps 13 are each set at“swing” because it is necessary to discharge conditioned air evenly to awider range of the room from the outlets 4, 4, . . . .

Based on each setting made in step S7, the ratio of air quantities,lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind direction are adjusted(step S8).

Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of the indoor unitZ in the temperature uniformization mode. To require the indoor unit Zto provide a capacity more than necessary is undesirable from thestandpoint of ensuring energy conservation. Therefore, if the indoorunit Z provides an excessive capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlledso that its capacity is reduced, and if the indoor unit Z provides aninsufficient capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is increased. Specifically, the indoor unit Z is controlled asfollows.

First, the load level in the overall space to be air-conditioned W isdetermined in step S9. To be more specific, when cooling operation iscurrently performed, it is determined whether the average temperature Tmof all the areas (1) through (4) inside the room is lower than, equal toor higher than 26° C., and when heating operation is currentlyperformed, it is determined whether the average temperature Tm of allthe areas (1) through (4) is lower than, equal to or higher than 23° C.It should be noted that the average temperature is determined by theaverage of the radiation temperatures of the areas (1) through (4)detected by the infrared sensor 15.

In this step, if it is determined that the load level is high (i.e., ifthe average temperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during coolingoperation, or if the average temperature Tm is lower than 23° C. duringheating operation), the process goes to automatic capacity control thatis carried out based on a set temperature Ts (step S10). To thecontrary, if it is determined that the load level is low (i.e., if theaverage temperature Tm is equal to or lower than 26° C. during coolingoperation, or if the average temperature Tm is equal to or higher than23° C. during heating operation), the process goes to automatic capacitycontrol that is carried out based on a recommendable set temperature Tss(step S11).

First, in carrying out the automatic capacity control based on the settemperature Ts, a comparison is made between the current averagetemperature Tm and the set temperature Ts in step S10. In this step,when the average temperature Tm is equal to or lower than the settemperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the average temperatureTm is equal to or higher than the set temperature Ts during heatingoperation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity is excessive.In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity isreduced, for example, by reducing the number of rotations of acompressor and reducing the number of rotations of the fan 6 of theindoor unit Z (step S13).

To the contrary, when the average temperature Tm is higher than the settemperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the average temperatureTm is lower than the set temperature Ts during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased, forexample, by increasing the number of rotations of a compressor andincreasing the number of rotations of the fan 6 (step S12).

On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity control basedon the recommendable set temperature Tss, first, a comparison is madebetween the current average temperature Tm and the recommendable settemperature Tss in step S11. In this step, when the average temperatureTm is equal to or lower than the recommendable set temperature Tssduring cooling operation, or when the average temperature Tm is equal toor higher than the recommendable set temperature Tss during heatingoperation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity is excessive.In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity isreduced (step S13). To the contrary, when the average temperature Tm ishigher than the recommendable set temperature Tss during coolingoperation, or when the average temperature Tm is lower than therecommendable set temperature Tss during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased (stepS12).

The above-described operation and automatic capacity control in thetemperature uniformization mode are repeatedly carried out as long asthe requirements for the execution of the temperature uniformizationmode are met.

On the other hand, if the answer is NO in step S5 (i.e., if it isdetermined that there exist, among all the areas (1) through (4), atleast one or more of the areas without the presence of people), theprocess goes to the execution of the spot air conditioning mode (stepS14).

After the operational air conditioning mode has been switched to thespot air conditioning mode, first, the number of people present in eachof the areas (1) through (4) is calculated in step S15. Then, in orderto realize the optimum spot air conditioning for each of the areas (1)through (4) in accordance with the number of people present in each ofthe areas (1) through (4), the required operational modes of the airflow changing means 52 provided in the outlets 4, 4, . . . , eachassociated with the corresponding one of the areas (1) through (4), aredetermined.

For the area with the presence of only one person, the ratio of airquantities is set at “large”, and the lateral wind direction andlongitudinal wind direction (i.e., the operational modes of the firstflaps 12 and the second flaps 13) are determined so as to direct thedischarge of conditioned air toward the position of a human body (step16).

In addition, for the area without the presence of a person, since thisarea does not need air conditioning itself, the ratio of air quantitiesis fixed at “small” and the lateral wind direction and longitudinal winddirection are both fixed (step S17).

Furthermore, the area with the presence of a plurality of people mostneeds air conditioning and requires uniform air conditioning of theentire area. Therefore, for this area, the ratio of air quantities isset at “large”; in addition, to determine each discharge direction ofconditioned air, the operational modes of the flaps for changing thelateral wind direction are each set at “swing”, and the operationalmodes of the flaps for changing the longitudinal wind direction are eachdetermined in accordance with the position of a human body (step S18).

Based on the settings made in steps S16 through S18, the ratio of airquantities, lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind direction areadjusted (step S19).

Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of the indoor unitZ in the spot air conditioning mode. Also in the spot air conditioningmode, to require the indoor unit Z to provide a capacity more thannecessary is undesirable from the standpoint of ensuring energyconservation, as in the above-described temperature uniformization mode.Therefore, if the indoor unit Z provides an excessive capacity, theindoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is reduced, and if theindoor unit Z provides an insufficient capacity, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is increased. Specifically, the indoorunit Z is controlled as follows.

First, in step S20, the infrared sensor 15 carries out detection foreach of the areas (1) through (4) of the space to be air-conditioned Wagain, and the temperature distribution and human body position in theoverall space to be air-conditioned W are determined based on pieces ofthe detected information (step 21).

Next, in step S22, the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined. Specifically, if cooling operation iscurrently performed, it is determined whether the average temperature Tmof all the areas (1) through (4) inside the room is lower than, equal toor higher than 26° C., and if heating operation is currently performed,it is determined whether the average temperature Tm of all the areas (1)through (4) is lower than, equal to or higher than 23° C.

If it is determined that the load level is high (i.e., if the averagetemperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during cooling operation, or if theaverage temperature Tm is lower than 23° C. during heating operation),the process goes to automatic capacity control that is carried out basedon a set temperature Ts (step S23). To the contrary, if it is determinedthat the load level is low (i.e., if the average temperature Tm is equalto or lower than 26° C. during cooling operation, or if the averagetemperature Tm is equal to or higher than 23° C. during heatingoperation), the process goes to automatic capacity control that iscarried out based on a recommendable set temperature Tss (step S24).

First, in carrying out the automatic capacity control based on the settemperature Ts, a comparison is made between the current human bodyambient temperature Tp and the set temperature Ts in step S23. In thisstep, when the human body ambient temperature Tp is equal to or lowerthan the set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the humanbody ambient temperature Tp is equal to or higher than the settemperature Ts during heating operation, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is excessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced (step S13).

To the contrary, when the human body ambient temperature Tp is higherthan the set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or when the humanbody ambient temperature Tp is lower than the set temperature Ts duringheating operation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity isinsufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is increased (step S12).

Furthermore, when a difference between the average temperature Tm andthe set temperature Ts is greater than a predetermined temperature α° C.during cooling operation, or when a difference between the settemperature Ts and the average temperature Tm is greater than apredetermined temperature α° C. during heating operation, it is deemedthat the capacity control is unnecessary, and the process of the controlis returned (step S23→step S6).

On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity control basedon the recommendable set temperature Tss, a comparison is made betweenthe current human body ambient temperature Tp and the recommendable settemperature Tss in step S24. In this step, when the human body ambienttemperature Tp is equal to or lower than the recommendable settemperature Tss during cooling operation, or when the human body ambienttemperature Tp is equal to or higher than the recommendable settemperature Tss during heating operation, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is excessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced (step S13).

To the contrary, when the human body ambient temperature Tp is higherthan the recommendable set temperature Tss during cooling operation, orwhen the human body ambient temperature Tp is lower than therecommendable set temperature Tss during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is increased (stepS12).

Furthermore, when a difference between the average temperature Tm andthe set temperature Ts is greater than a predetermined temperature β° C.during cooling operation, or when a difference between the settemperature Ts and the average temperature Tm is greater than apredetermined temperature β° C. during heating operation, it is deemedthat the capacity control is unnecessary, and the process of the controlis returned (step S24→step S6).

The above-described operation and automatic capacity control in the spotair conditioning mode are repeatedly carried out as long as therequirements for the execution of the spot air conditioning mode aremet.

(d-5) Fifth Exemplary Control (see FIGS. 19 and 20)

The fifth exemplary control is targeted for the indoor unit Z accordingto the second embodiment (i.e., the indoor unit formed to include, asthe detection means 51, the infrared sensor 15 and the temperature andhumidity sensor 16). In the fifth exemplary control, the control overswitching of the operational air conditioning mode between thetemperature uniformization mode and the spot air conditioning mode isautomatically carried out based on whether the load level in the overallspace to be air-conditioned W is high or low. Furthermore, thisexemplary control differs from the other exemplary control in that eachradiation temperature detected by the infrared sensor 15 is not employedas it is when determining the average temperature Tm of the space to beair-conditioned W, which serves as the criterion for determining theautomatic capacity control. In the fifth exemplary control, valuesdetected by the infrared sensor 15 and values detected by thetemperature and humidity sensor 16 are each assigned a predeterminedweight to determine a value that more precisely indicates thetemperature environment of the space to be air-conditioned W, and thisvalue is employed as the measurement temperature of the space to beair-conditioned W, thus making it possible to further promote thecomfort of air conditioning and energy conservation.

Specifically, as illustrated in the flow charts in FIGS. 19 and 20,first, “automatic operation” is selected as an operation mode after thestart of the control (step S1), and then the process of the control goesto step S2.

Next, in step S2, the radiation temperature and high temperature region(i.e., human body position) of each of the areas (1) through (4) aredetected by the infrared sensor 15, and the temperature of an intake airfrom each of the areas (1) through (4) is detected by the associatedtemperature and humidity sensors 16, 16, . . . . Then, based on piecesof the detected information, the temperature distribution and human bodyposition, for example, in the overall space to be air-conditioned W aredetermined (step S3).

Thereafter, in step S4, an operation signal for cooling operation orheating operation is inputted, and the air conditioning apparatus isallowed to start cooling operation or heating operation in response tothe inputted signal (step S4).

Subsequently, in step S5, the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined, and the determination result isemployed as the criterion for switching the operational air conditioningmode. It should be noted that the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined by making a comparison between theaverage temperature Tm of the overall space to be air-conditioned W andreference temperature. Furthermore, the average temperature Tm isdetermined by the average of the radiation temperatures of the areas (1)through (4) detected by the infrared sensor 15.

Specifically, in step S5, when cooling operation is performed, it isdetermined whether the average temperature Tm is lower than, equal to orhigher than 26° C., and when heating operation is performed, it isdetermined whether the average temperature Tm is lower than, equal to orhigher than 23° C. More specifically, when it is determined that theaverage temperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during cooling operation,or when it is determined that the average temperature Tm is higher than23° C. during heating operation, the process goes to the execution ofthe temperature uniformization mode (step S6). To the contrary, when itis determined that the average temperature Tm is equal to or lower than26° C. during cooling operation, or when it is determined that theaverage temperature Tm is equal to or lower than 23° C. during heatingoperation, the process goes to the execution of the spot airconditioning mode (step S15).

In the former case, the average temperature Tm in the space to beair-conditioned W is high, i.e., a lot of people are present in thespace to be air-conditioned W, and therefore, there is a great need forthe uniformization of the temperature of the overall space to beair-conditioned W. To the contrary, in the latter case, the averagetemperature Tm in the space to be air-conditioned W is low, i.e., only afew people are present in the space to be air-conditioned W. Therefore,it is more economical to provide spot air conditioning to thesurroundings of people than to provide air conditioning to the overallspace to be air-conditioned W.

After the operational air conditioning mode has been switched to thetemperature uniformization mode (step S6), first, the averagetemperature Tm of the overall space to be air-conditioned W is weightedto carry out temperature correction. Normally, employed as the averagetemperature Tm is either an average radiation temperature Tir determinedbased on information detected by the infrared sensor 15, or an averageintake air temperature Ta determined based on information detected bythe temperature and humidity sensor 16. However, the temperatureuniformization mode is not targeted for air conditioning of each humanbody itself but targeted for air conditioning of the overall space to beair-conditioned W so that the temperature thereof becomes uniform;therefore, it is preferable that the average temperature Tm iscalculated with weight placed on the average intake air temperature Tarather than the average radiation temperature Tir that is more likely tovary with the presence of a human body.

In consideration of the above-described points, in this exemplarycontrol, a weight factor for the average intake air temperature Ta is(0.5˜1) and a weight factor for the average radiation temperature Tir is(0.5˜0) so that a corrected average temperature Tm′ is determined by thefollowing equation, Tm′=(0.5˜1) Ta+(0.5˜0) Tir. The corrected averagetemperature Tm′ is employed as the measurement temperature of the spaceto be air-conditioned W and is reflected in the automatic capacitycontrol described below.

Next, in step S8, the ratio of air quantities from the outlets 4, 4, . .. of the indoor unit Z (i.e., the ratio of opening areas in the outlets4, 4, . . . adjusted by the air quantity distribution mechanisms 10, 10,. . . ) is calculated, and furthermore, the operational modes of thefirst flaps 12, 12, . . . and the second flaps 13, 13, . . . are eachset at “swing”. In this step, the operational modes of all the firstflaps 12 and second flaps 13 are each set at “swing” because it isnecessary to discharge conditioned air evenly to a wider range of theroom from the outlets 4, 4, . . . .

Based on each setting made in step S7, the ratio of air quantities,lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind direction are adjusted(step S9).

Thereafter, the process goes to the control of the capacity of theindoor unit Z in the temperature uniformization mode. To require theindoor unit Z to provide a capacity more than necessary is undesirablefrom the standpoint of ensuring energy conservation. Therefore, if theindoor unit Z provides an excessive capacity, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is reduced, and if the indoor unit Zprovides an insufficient capacity, the indoor unit Z is controlled sothat its capacity is increased. Specifically, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled as follows.

First, it is determined in step S10 whether the operation mode of themain unit of the air conditioning apparatus is a cooling mode or aheating mode. If the operation mode is the cooling mode, the processgoes to automatic capacity control that is carried out based on a settemperature (step 11), and if the operation mode is the heating mode,the process goes to automatic capacity control that is carried out basedon a recommendable set temperature (step S12). In step S10, theselection of the mode of the automatic capacity control is carried outbased on the operation mode of the main unit because of the followingreasons. The average temperature Tm of the space to be air-conditioned Wis high in the temperature uniformization mode; therefore, airconditioning is preferably performed at the set temperature duringcooling operation since the load level is high, while air conditioningis preferably performed at the recommendable set temperature duringheating operation since the load level is low.

In carrying out the automatic capacity control based on the settemperature, first, a comparison is made between the corrected averagetemperature Tm′ and the set temperature Ts in step S11. In this step,when the corrected average temperature Tm′ is equal to or lower than theset temperature Ts, it is determined that air conditioning capacity isexcessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is reduced, for example, by reducing the number of rotations ofa compressor and reducing the number of rotations of the fan 6 of theindoor unit Z (step S14).

To the contrary, when the corrected average temperature Tm′ is higherthan the set temperature Ts, it is determined that air conditioningcapacity is insufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlledso that its capacity is increased, for example, by increasing the numberof rotations of a compressor and increasing the number of rotations ofthe fan 6 (step S13).

On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity control basedon the recommendable set temperature Tss, first, a comparison is madebetween the current corrected average temperature Tm′ and therecommendable set temperature Tss in step S12. Then, when the correctedaverage temperature Tm′ is equal to or higher than the recommendable settemperature Tss, it is determined that air conditioning capacity isexcessive. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is reduced (step S14). To the contrary, when the correctedaverage temperature Tm′ is lower than the recommendable set temperatureTss, it is determined that air conditioning capacity is insufficient. Inthis case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity isincreased (step S13).

The above-described operation and automatic capacity control in thetemperature uniformization mode are repeatedly carried out as long asthe requirements for the execution of the temperature uniformizationmode are met.

On the other hand, if the spot air conditioning mode has been selectedin step S5, the process goes to the execution of the spot airconditioning mode (step S15).

After the operational air conditioning mode has been switched to thespot air conditioning mode, first, the average temperature Tm of theoverall space to be air-conditioned W and human body ambient temperatureTp are each weighted to carry out temperature correction. Normally,employed as the average temperature Tm is either an average radiationtemperature Tir determined based on information detected by the infraredsensor 15, or an average intake air temperature Ta determined based oninformation detected by the temperature and humidity sensor 16. However,the spot air conditioning mode is not targeted for air conditioning ofthe overall space to be air-conditioned W but targeted for airconditioning of the surroundings of each human body present in thespace; therefore, it is preferable that the average temperature Tm iscalculated with weight placed on, rather than the average intake airtemperature Ta, the average radiation temperature Tir that is morelikely to vary with the presence of a human body.

In consideration of the above-described points, in this exemplarycontrol, as for a corrected average temperature Tm′, a weight factor forthe average intake air temperature Ta is (0.5˜0) and a weight factor forthe average radiation temperature Tir is (0.5˜1) so that the correctedaverage temperature Tm′ is determined by the following equation,Tm′=(0.5˜0) Ta+(0.5˜1) Tir. On the other hand, as for a corrected humanbody ambient temperature Tp′, a weight factor for the average intake airtemperature Tae of a predetermined area is (0.5˜0) and a weight factorfor the average radiation temperature Tire of the predetermined area is(0.5˜1) so that the corrected human body ambient temperature Tp′ isdetermined by the following equation, Tp′=(0.5˜0) Tae+(0.5˜1) Tire.Furthermore, the corrected values are each employed as the measurementtemperature of the space to be air-conditioned W and reflected in theautomatic capacity control described below.

Next, the number of people present in each of the areas (1) through (4)is calculated in step S17. In order to realize the optimum spot airconditioning for each of the areas (1) through (4) in accordance withthe number of people present in each of the areas (1) through (4), therequired operational modes of the air flow changing means 52 provided inthe outlets 4, 4, . . . , each associated with the corresponding one ofthe areas (1) through (4), are determined.

Specifically, for the area with the presence of only one person, theratio of air quantities is set at “large”, and the lateral winddirection and longitudinal wind direction (i.e., the operational modesof the first flaps 12 and the second flaps 13) are determined so as todirect the discharge of conditioned air toward the position of a humanbody (step 18).

Besides, for the area without the presence of a person, since this areadoes not need air conditioning itself, the ratio of air quantities isfixed at “small” and the lateral wind direction and longitudinal winddirection are both fixed (step S19).

Furthermore, the area with the presence of a plurality of people mostneeds air conditioning and requires uniform air conditioning of theentire area. Therefore, for this area, the ratio of air quantities isset at “large”; in addition, to determine each discharge direction ofconditioned air, the operational modes of the flaps for changing thelateral wind direction are each set at “swing”, and the operationalmodes of the flaps for changing the longitudinal wind direction are eachdetermined in accordance with the position of a human body (step S20).

Based on the settings made in steps S18 through S20, the ratio of airquantities, lateral wind direction, and longitudinal wind direction areadjusted (step S21).

Next, the process goes to the control of the capacity of the indoor unitZ in the spot air conditioning mode. Also in the spot air conditioningmode, to require the indoor unit Z to provide a capacity more thannecessary is undesirable from the standpoint of ensuring energyconservation, as in the above-described temperature uniformization mode.Therefore, if the indoor unit Z provides an excessive capacity, theindoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is reduced, and if theindoor unit Z provides an insufficient capacity, the indoor unit Z iscontrolled so that its capacity is increased. Furthermore, if the statesof the excessive capacity and insufficient capacity are within apredetermined range and are too negligible to carry out control, theprocess of the control is returned without carrying out any capacitycontrol. Specifically, the following steps are performed.

First, in step S22, the infrared sensor 15 and the temperature andhumidity sensor 16 carry out detection for each of the areas (1) through(4) of the space to be air-conditioned W again, and then the temperaturedistribution and human body position in the overall space to beair-conditioned W are determined based on pieces of the detectedinformation (step 23).

Next, in step S24, the load level in the overall space to beair-conditioned W is determined. To be more specific, if coolingoperation is currently performed, it is determined whether the averagetemperature Tm of all the areas (1) through (4) inside the room is lowerthan, equal to or higher than 26° C. On the other hand, if heatingoperation is currently performed, it is determined whether the averagetemperature Tm is in the range of 18° C. to 23° C. or lower than 18° C.

If it is determined that the load level is high (i.e., if the averagetemperature Tm is higher than 26° C. during cooling operation, or if theaverage temperature Tm is lower than 18° C. during heating operation),the process goes to automatic capacity control that is carried out basedon a set temperature Ts (step S25). To the contrary, if it is determinedthat the load level is low (i.e., if the average temperature Tm is equalto or lower than 26° C. during cooling operation, or if the averagetemperature Tm is in the rage of 18° C. to 23° C. during heatingoperation), the process goes to automatic capacity control that iscarried out based on a recommendable set temperature Tss (step S26).

First, in carrying out the automatic capacity control based on the settemperature Ts, a comparison is made between the current corrected humanbody ambient temperature Tp′ and the set temperature Ts in step S25. Inthis step, when the corrected human body ambient temperature Tp′ isequal to or lower than the set temperature Ts during cooling operation,or when the corrected human body ambient temperature Tp′ is equal to orhigher than the set temperature Ts during heating operation, it isdetermined that air conditioning capacity is excessive. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is reduced (stepS14).

To the contrary, when the corrected human body ambient temperature Tp′is higher than the set temperature Ts during cooling operation, or whenthe corrected human body ambient temperature Tp′ is lower than the settemperature Ts during heating operation, it is determined that airconditioning capacity is insufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Zis controlled so that its capacity is increased (step S13).

Furthermore, when a difference between the corrected average temperatureTm′ and the set temperature Ts is greater than a predeterminedtemperature α° C. during cooling operation, or when a difference betweenthe set temperature Ts and the corrected average temperature Tm′ isgreater than a predetermined temperature α° C. during heating operation,it is deemed that the capacity control is unnecessary, and the processof the control is returned (step S25→step S6).

On the other hand, in carrying out the automatic capacity control basedon the recommendable set temperature Tss, a comparison is made betweenthe current corrected human body ambient temperature Tp′ and therecommendable set temperature Tss in step S24. In this step, when thecorrected human body ambient temperature Tp′ is equal to or lower thanthe recommendable set temperature Tss during cooling operation, or whenthe corrected human body ambient temperature Tp′ is equal to or higherthan the recommendable set temperature Tss during heating operation, itis determined that air conditioning capacity is excessive. In this case,the indoor unit Z is controlled so that its capacity is reduced (stepS14).

To the contrary, when the corrected human body ambient temperature Tp′is higher than the recommendable set temperature Tss during coolingoperation, or when the corrected human body ambient temperature Tp′ islower than the recommendable set temperature Tss during heatingoperation, it is determined that air conditioning capacity isinsufficient. In this case, the indoor unit Z is controlled so that itscapacity is increased (step S13).

Furthermore, when a difference between the corrected average temperatureTm′ and the set temperature Ts is greater than a predeterminedtemperature β° C. during cooling operation, or when a difference betweenthe set temperature Ts and the corrected average temperature Tm′ isgreater than a predetermined temperature β° C. during heating operation,it is deemed that the capacity control is unnecessary, and the processof the control is returned (step S26→step S6).

The above-described operation and automatic capacity control in the spotair conditioning mode are repeatedly carried out as long as therequirements for the execution of the spot air conditioning mode aremet.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

As described above, the air conditioning apparatus according to thepresent invention is not only useful as an air conditioning apparatus ofthe type in which its indoor unit is embedded in a ceiling or hung froma ceiling, but also particularly suitable for air conditioning of arelatively large space.

1. An air conditioning apparatus comprising: an indoor panel (2) that isdisposed at the bottom side of a ceiling (50), and is provided with aninlet (3) and a plurality of outlets (4, 4, . . . ) rectangularlysurrounding the periphery of the inlet (3); detection means (51)comprising an infrared sensor (15) for detecting as a radiationtemperature the temperature of an object in a space to beair-conditioned (W); air flow changing means (52) for changing thecharacteristic of an air flow discharged from each of the outlets (4, 4,. . . ); and control means (53) for controlling the operation of the airflow changing means (52) based on detection information detected by thedetection means (51) and operation information concerning the operationof the air conditioning apparatus, wherein an operational airconditioning mode of the air conditioning apparatus is selectivelyswitched between a temperature uniformization mode in which temperaturedistribution in the space to be air-conditioned (W) is uniformized, anda spot air conditioning mode in which the surroundings of a human body(M) present in the space to be air-conditioned (W) are intensivelyair-conditioned, the operational air conditioning mode being switchedautomatically by the control means (53) or manually.
 2. The airconditioning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the operational airconditioning mode is switched automatically by the control means (53),and wherein the space to be air-conditioned (W) is divided into aplurality of areas, and the operational air conditioning mode is set tothe temperature uniformization mode when it is detected by the detectionmeans (51) that the percentage of the area with the presence of a humanbody (M) to the plurality of areas is above a predetermined level, whilethe operational air conditioning mode is set to the spot airconditioning mode when it is detected by the detection means (51) thatthe percentage is below the predetermined level.
 3. The air conditioningapparatus of claim 1, wherein the operational air conditioning mode isswitched automatically by the control means (53), and wherein theoperational air conditioning mode is switched to the temperatureuniformization mode when it is detected by the detection means (51) thatthe level of a load applied to the overall space to be air-conditioned(W) is above a predetermined level, while the operational airconditioning mode is switched to the spot air conditioning mode when itis detected by the detection means (51) that the load level is below thepredetermined level.
 4. The air conditioning apparatus of claim 1,wherein the operational air conditioning mode is continuously set to thetemperature uniformization mode during a predetermined time periodsubsequent to the start of air conditioning operation or the switchingof the operational air conditioning mode, and after the predeterminedtime period has been elapsed, the control over the switching of theoperational air conditioning mode is carried out based on the detectioninformation detected by the detection means (51).
 5. The airconditioning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the switching of theoperational air conditioning mode is executed based on each time periodof a day.
 6. The air conditioning apparatus of claim 1, wherein thecontrol of air conditioning capacity is carried out based on thetemperature of radiation emitted from an object in a predetermined areawhich is detected by the detection means (51), and a set temperaturethat has been set in advance.
 7. The air conditioning apparatus of claim6, wherein a recommendable set temperature is used instead of the settemperature depending on the load level detected by the detection means(51).
 8. The air conditioning apparatus of claim 1, wherein thedetection means (51) further comprises, in addition to the infraredsensor (15), a temperature and humidity sensor (16) for detecting thetemperature of an intake air taken into the inlet (3).
 9. The airconditioning apparatus of claim 8, wherein the infrared sensor (15) isformed to detect the position of a human body in the space to beair-conditioned (W), and wherein the temperature and humidity sensor(16) is formed to detect the temperature of an intake air.
 10. The airconditioning apparatus of claim 9, wherein a plurality of thetemperature and humidity sensors (16) are provided so that eachtemperature and humidity sensor (16) detects the temperature of anintake air from an associated one of the areas of the space to beair-conditioned (W), wherein the radiation temperature from each of theareas detected by the infrared sensor (15) and the intake airtemperature from each of the areas detected by the associated one of thetemperature and humidity sensors (16, 16, . . . ) are each assigned apredetermined weight and are summed to determine the measurementtemperature of each of the areas, and wherein the weight assignment tothe radiation temperature and the intake air temperature are made suchthat the weight assigned to the intake air temperature is increased inthe temperature uniformization mode, and the weight assigned to theradiation temperature is increased in the spot air conditioning mode.11. The air conditioning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the air flowchanging means (52) comprises: an air quantity distribution mechanism(10) for changing the ratio of distribution of air quantities dischargedfrom the outlets (4, 4, . . . ); a first flap (12) for changing thelateral discharge direction of an air flow discharged from theassociated outlet (4); and a second flap (13) for changing thelongitudinal discharge direction of the air flow discharged from theassociated outlet (4), and wherein the air quantity distributionmechanism (10), the first flap (12) and the second flap (13) associatedwith each of the outlets (4, 4, . . . ) are formed so that they areoperable independently and separately from their counterparts.
 12. Theair conditioning apparatus of claim 1, wherein the air flow changingmeans (52) comprises: an air quantity distribution mechanism (10) forchanging the ratio of distribution of air quantities discharged from theoutlets (4, 4, . . . ); a first flap (12) for changing the lateraldischarge direction of an air flow discharged from the associated outlet(4); and a second flap (13) for changing the longitudinal dischargedirection of the air flow discharged from the associated outlet (4),wherein the air quantity distribution mechanism (10) and the first flap(12) associated with each of the outlets (4, 4, . . . ) are formed sothat they are operable independently and separately from theircounterparts, and wherein the second flap (13) associated with each theoutlets (4, 4, . . . ) is formed to operate together with itscounterpart.
 13. The air conditioning apparatus of claim 11 or 12,wherein the air quantity distribution mechanism (10) and the first flap(12) are each provided in an upstream region of a discharge duct (14)continuous with the outlet (4), and wherein a driving mechanism (29) forthe air quantity distribution mechanism (10) and a driving mechanism(30) for the first flap (12) are provided at respective longitudinalends of the discharge duct (14).
 14. The air conditioning apparatus ofclaim 13, wherein the air quantity distribution mechanism (10) comprisesa distribution shutter (11) attached so that the shutter (11) is allowedto assume a position adjacent to a side wall of the discharge duct (14)extending in a longitudinal direction thereof, and to tilt toward aninward region of the discharge duct (14), and wherein the distributionshutter (11) is formed to assume a position adjacent to thelongitudinally extending side wall of the discharge duct (14) when thearea of an opening of the discharge duct (14) is increased, and toassume a position at an upstream side region of the discharge duct (14)when the area of the opening is reduced.